Panamarathupatti Lake revival demanded by Tamil Nadu farmers

Farmers and water conservation activists in Tamil Nadu are demanding the restoration of the 2,140-acre Panamarathupatti Lake near Salem. The lake, which once served as a primary drinking water source for Salem city and Rasipuram, has lacked substantial water for nearly two decades.

Proponents of the revival suggest diverting surplus water from the Mettur system to the lake. Advocates, including M Thangaraj of the Tamil Nadu Natural Farmers' Association, proposed studying existing surplus-water networks, such as the pumping scheme from the Poolampatti region, to determine the feasibility of diversion.

Restoration efforts require the removal of invasive Seemai Karuvelam trees and the clearing of encroachments that obstruct natural water channels. The revival of the lake is expected to benefit approximately 10 surrounding villages by improving groundwater recharge and supporting agricultural activities.

Local officials from the Salem City Municipal Corporation stated that previous restoration work halted after a contractor's tender expired, but they are currently preparing to float a new tender with the removal of invasive vegetation as an immediate priority.