Environmentalist Foundation of India-Coimbatore rejuvenated the Thumbikairayen pond near Thondamuthur in the district as part of its water-body rejuvenation initiative.

EFI Chief Coordinator Sanjay Prasad said most of the lakes in the city were interconnected long ago as part of a conservation strategy. But, a majority of the lakes were polluted as a result of being turned into dump yards and sewage drains.

To reclaim lost habitats and ensure protection of water bodies, EFI has been involved in cleaning and restoration of lakes and ponds across cities in India.

In Coimbatore, EFI has competed restoration of Thumbikairayen pond spread over 3 acres, removing garbage and weeds. The desilted pond has now higher storage capacity.

Water bodies in rural areas of the district were less polluted, he said. “Through proper desilting and by removing the weeds, we can easily restore the water bodies in the rural areas. The lakes and ponds in Madukkarai and Karamadai regions in the district will be cleaned soon, he adds.

The maintenance of the restored pond will be through people’s participation and programmes to create awareness were being undertaken, he said.