Tata Communications has partnered with Pitchandikulam Forest
officials to rejuvenate and restore the Nagan Thangal Lake for
effective groundwater recharge and provide access to safe drinking
water for the community in Upparapalayam, Pothur village in
Tiruvallur district.The Nanneer project focusses on the restoration
work which includes lake deepening, plantation of indigenous trees,
shrubs, reeds, setting up of landforms, such as bird islands to attract
and enhance the biodiversity. The project benefits around 12,000
people of which 60 per cent are from marginalised communities.
The lake, spread over 15 acres, is desilted to a depth of 1.5 m in 4
acres. Recent rain has contributed to 1,00,000 cubic meters of fresh
water in the lake, helping it reach its full capacity. More than 4000
indigenous tropical dry evergreen forest trees and shrubs have been
planted around the lake leading to increased biodiversity in the area.
In addition, insects, birds and small animals have found a new home,
giving a boost to the fauna and flora in the region. Interestingly, it has
been noticed that even migratory birds such as Pintail, Common Teal,
Common Coot, Marsh Sandpiper, etc. have started to visit the lake.
Today, 13 th March 2023, Tata Communications inaugurated The Blue
Green Centre, a knowledge and learning facility, where the lake’s
history, local landscape, all details of the restoration project are
showcased to spread the awareness of the initiative and promote many
more of such projects. The project is connected to the Schools in
Action for the Planet project supported by Tata Communications to
encourage environment education and action for learners in
government schools in Ambattur area, Chennai. School children from
32 government and under-privileged schools (approx. 3000 students)
have access and the opportunity to know more about the restoration
details closely.
Over 400 Tata Communications employees volunteered and clocked
1600+ volunteering hours towards this project. Tata Communications
believes in integrating action on climate change, biodiversity, water,
and energy into community initiatives, and creating partnerships that
promote ecological restoration and regeneration. The Nanneer project
is one such initiative to serve the community.
September 19, 2024
