Even though Chennai is reeling under severe water shortage, constant restoration efforts have led to a spurt in the faunal diversity in Adyar Eco-Park. While the species of dragonflies has increased from 19 to 25, the number of butterfly species has increased from 60 to 73, according to a policy note tabled in the Assembly by Municipal Administration and Water Supplies Minister S.P. Velumani.
A senior official said five years ago, the water quality in the park was classified as ‘E’ and it was fit for nothing. “Restoration efforts have improved the quality of water and achieved the Best-Use Class D of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which would allow propagation of wildlife and fisheries,” said the official.
Flowering and forest plants attracted butterflies and dragonflies. The fish species in the park also increased from six to 10 and birds from 99 to 103 between 2015-16 and 2016-17.
The restoration work includes increase in the water spread and tidal interaction area, plantation of native plants, particularly tropical dry evergreen forest species, mangroves, its associates and reeds and landscaping for interactive environmental programme.
In Adyar estuary, around 57,000 mangrove species have been planted in the islands, mud flats and bunds. Besides, 35,000 terrestrial saplings have been planted and seemai karuvelam, the invasive species, have been removed. It was followed by bund stabilisation and removal of debris and plastic.
Pointing out that the Adyar was highly degraded over the years, the policy note said a restoration plan III for the stretch of the river from Adhanur, the origin of the river to the river mouth, had been prepared.
The Chennai Rivers Restoration Trust has prepared a master plan for restoration and protection of water bodies and waterways in Chennai Metropolitan Area. A total of 200 water bodies have been identified and concept plans prepared.