Tata Communications and Pitchandikulam Forest completed the strategic revitalization of Nagan Thangal Lake in Upparapalayam, Tamil Nadu. Part of the Upparapalayam village, Pothur Panchayat, Tamil Nadu’ this project successfully transitioned the site into a robust ecological habitat and a key center for community engagement.
The restoration initiative has strengthened local water security, enhanced biodiversity, and deepened community participation, as affirmed by an independent evaluation conducted by W CReS (the Watershed Organisation Trust Centre for Resilience Studies).
Based on its hydrogeological assessment of the 15.01 acre lake and surrounding catchment — including groundwater levels, recharge patterns, geophysical mapping, and aquifer behaviour — the W CReS report underscored the project as a benchmark in sustainable lake restoration. It highlighted how a data driven planning approach, rooted in catchment hydrology and community stewardship, can deliver measurable environmental and socio economic outcomes.
The Nagan Thangal Lake had earlier served as a crucial water source for nearly 2,800 residents. It was also an essential water body for water conveyance and urban flood prevention during the monsoon season. However, years of neglect, siltation, and pollution had severely reduced its capacity by nearly 75% and degraded the surrounding ecosystem.
The restoration has significantly improved groundwater recharge, drinking water supply for livestock, occasional fishing, community recreation — enhancing the quality of life for nearly 12,000 individuals, 60% of whom belong to marginalised communities. Microbiological water quality indicators also show low to moderate contamination levels, indicating the need for ongoing community awareness and treatment initiatives.
Mukul Kumar, Vice President (EOHS & Sustainability), Tata Communications, remarked, “At Tata Communications, we remain committed to the wellbeing of both people and the planet. The Project Nanneer by Tata Communications initiative has been a significant step in this direction. What was once a dying lake has now been transformed into a thriving ecosystem supporting rich biodiversity and serving as a space for community learning and engagement.”
“The Project Nanneer by Tata Communications and the learning centre is a living example of ecological restoration, biodiversity revival, and community empowerment. It brings together water, greenery, biodiversity, and people into a shared healing space. It’s a step toward remembering the future garden — a greener, more biodiverse, and conscious Tamil Nadu” said, Joss Brooks, Founder, Pitchandikulam Forest
“At a time when the global discourse is increasingly centered on ecosystem restoration and nature-based solutions, initiatives like Project Nanneer by Tata Communications stand out as powerful examples. What makes this initiative truly powerful is the ability to back the impact story with thoughtful, credible evidence. Robust assessments and consistent monitoring are the greatest tools in building trust and scaling meaningful change” said Dr. Marcella D’Souza, Director, W-CReS.
Voices from the Community
“ By demonstrating how a single lake restoration can contribute to groundwater recharge and biodiversity, Tata Communications is setting a precedent for sustainable water management,” said PV Suresh, President, Pothur Panchayat.
“The Project Nanneer by Tata Communications site and the learning centre have become popular destinations for school visits and nature walks, fostering a deeper connection between children and their natural surroundings,” added Meena, Teacher, Iyappakkam Girls Hr. Sec. School, Thiruvallur District. “This hands-on exposure to biodiversity in its natural habitat is crucial for inspiring our next generation of environmental stewards.”
“Nagan Thangal’s transformation from a dump to a living lake is visibly evident. We used to see a diverse species of birds here when we were children — it’s heartwarming to see them return,” said Thulasi, Upparapalayam village PWD Coordinator and Upparapalayam village resident.
