By 2015, Chitlapakkam Lake was heavily polluted and unable to recharge groundwater due to a large garbage dumpsite and sewage inflow.

The local group ‘Chitlapakkam Rising’ initiated petitions and awareness campaigns, including a water audit that revealed significant amounts of sewage entering the lake.

When governmental measures failed, the members of the group began cleaning the lake themselves, sparking a mass citizen movement with regular weekend cleaning drives.

The movement grew into a large community effort, with hundreds of people — including children and senior citizens — participating in the cleanup drive.

Their efforts caught the attention of the local government, leading to the then chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami visiting the site and sanctioning Rs 25 crore for restoration works.

To clean and restore the lake, the team proposed a scientific restoration method called the 4D principle: Deflect, Drain, Desilt, and Deepen.

This involved the construction of sluice gates to prevent sewage entry, the removal of accumulated sewage water from the lake, the removal of poor-quality soil to restore the lake bed, and the deepening of the lake to enhance rainwater storage and prevent flooding.

Post-restoration, the lake area was transformed into a community space with pathways, play areas, a gym, and other amenities.

The restored lake now serves as a vibrant community hub for recreation and social interaction.

The successful restoration serves as an example of effective community action and has inspired others to replicate the model in their own localities.