The work for desilting and cleaning up the ancient Agathiswarar —Velviswarar Temple tank in Valasaravakkam has now been launched following representations from devotees and the local people.
Speaking to City Express, temple authorities said the water hyacinths that had been clogging the water body would be removed soon as over a dozen workers are on the job.
The sprawling tank is about 20 feet deep and is an important source for recharging ground water apart from being used for temple purposes.
Local residents opined that it will be useful if the tank is developed by building a proper bund, steps, lighting and a pathway that can be used for walking. Temple officials said that they were not getting any funds from the Corporation or other government agencies for the clean-up tasks.
“This is carried out by the temple’s own fund besides donations made by the devotees and patrons. If we get sufficient funds, the tank can be developed in a much better manner. I hope this materialises soon,” an official said. The temple is said to be 800 years old.
The temple authorities are also taking steps to sensitise the neighbourhood people on the need for abstaining from throwing away garbage besides other waste into the tank.