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Context: Chennai is experiencing a critical water crisis due to the depletion of key water sources like Veeranam Lake and declining reservoir levels.

Key Highlights

Veeranam Lake

• Located in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu, Veeranam Lake is situated approximately 235 km from Chennai.
• Veeranam Lake receives water primarily from the Kollidam River via the Vadavaru River. Additionally, inflow from the Mettur dam through the Kollidam and Lower Anicut contributes to replenishing the lake during specific periods.

Historical and Cultural Significance ●Veeranam Lake, also known as Veeranarayanapuram Lake, has a rich history dating back to the 10th century during the Greater Chola period (907–955 CE). ●It was constructed by Rajaditya Chola, named after the Vishnu temple nearby, and derived from his father's title, "Veeranarayanan." ●Veeranam Lake holds literary significance, notably featuring in the opening chapter of the novel "Ponniyin Selvan" by Kalki Krishnamurthy. ●Veeranam Lake's construction by ancient people using rudimentary tools highlights the remarkable engineering achievements of the Greater Chola dynasty.

Impact of Drying Veeranam Lake

• Veeranam Lake, a significant drinking water source for Chennai, has reached zero storage capacity due to insufficient inflow from the Mettur dam.
• This depletion signifies a severe water shortage, impacting the city's ability to meet its water demand during the summer months when water consumption typically increases.

Decline in Other Reservoirs

• The decline in storage levels across other reservoirs like Poondi, Cholavaram, Puzhal, Kannankottai Thervoy Kandigai, and Chembarambakkam lakes further exacerbates the water scarcity situation in Chennai.
• With declining reservoir levels, Chennai is increasingly reliant on groundwater, desalinated seawater, and other alternative water sources to meet its needs.

Water Supply Challenges

• Chennai's water demand-supply gap remains significant, with a persisting imbalance between demand (2,232 MLD) and supply (1,070 MLD).
• Despite efforts to augment water supply through desalination plants and groundwater extraction, the city continues to face challenges in meeting its growing water needs.

Future Projections and Concerns

• Studies forecast a widening water demand-supply gap in Chennai due to rapid urbanization, climate change, and population growth.
• The projected unmet water demand by 2030, 2040, and 2050 underscores the urgent need for sustainable water resource management strategies.

Recommendations for Water Management

• Experts emphasize the importance of groundwater recharge, rainwater harvesting, desalination expansion, and reclaimed water utilization to address Chennai's water deficit.
• Sustainable solutions and policy interventions are needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure water security for Chennai's growing population.
• Urgent measures are required to conserve water resources, reduce water consumption, and implement effective water management practices to avoid a severe water crisis in Chennai.

Conclusion

• Addressing Chennai's water crisis demands coordinated efforts from policymakers, government agencies, and communities to adopt innovative water management solutions and ensure long-term water sustainability for the city.

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Source:

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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements in the context of the Veeranam Lake: 1. It is located in Andhra Pradesh. 2. It was constructed by Chola Prince Rajaditya Chola. 3. The Kollidam River is the main source of water for Veeranam Lake. 4. It was constructed by ancient people using rudimentary tools. How many of the above statements are correct? A) Only one B) Only two C) Only three D) All four Answer: C