Tamil Nadu - Cuddalore   

Veeranam tank: algae deposits stink up area

Special Correspondent

"Gathering of moss due to absence of fish"

CUDDALORE: Farmers and residents in the vicinity of the Veeranam tank have complained of bad odour emitting from the water source. In a stretch of the water-spread thick layer of moss or dead algae has been formed, and because of the hot sunlight the stench is quite strong.

According to K.V.Elangeeran, president of the Vettuvaikkal, Naraikkal Paasana Vivasayigal Sangam, gathering of moss was due to absence of fish.

Prior to tapping the Veeranam water for Chennai, the local people were allowed to breed fish. But in the absence of fish breeding, all kinds of unwanted things were accumulating on the water surface.

In a representation given to District Collector Rajendra Ratnoo, Mr. Elangeeran called for reintroduction of pisciculture in the tank and also engaging workforce under the Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to remove the moss.

No dead fish

Mr. Ratnoo told The Hindu that about one fifth of the tank, for a length of three-four km, was covered with dead algae. Earlier there were reports that dead fish were found floating, but an inspection revealed that there were no such symptoms.

The Collector had written to the Chennai Metrowater, Fisheries Department and the Agriculture Department to form a high-level committee to address the issue.

Use of chemicals

At places, the deposit was so thick that boats could not venture into it; whereas, in the shallow water these could be removed manually.

The possibility of using certain chemicals such as copper sulphate to neutralise the odour too was being contemplated, the Collector added.

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Veeranam tank: algae deposits stink up area

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