Tranquil Oasis in the City: Exploring Chetpet Eco Park

Chetpet Eco Park offers an array of delights for all who visit its serene grounds. Spanning 16 acres, with a picturesque 9-acre lake, this oasis is under the care of the Department of Fisheries, formally inaugurated in February 2016.

Delving into its history, we find that the roots of this park trace back to the early 1900s, when Sir Frederick Nicholson and Sir Alfred Chatterton envisioned industrialization for the Madras Presidency. Nicholson championed fisheries, leading to the eventual stewardship of Chetpet lake by the Fisheries Department in the 1930s.

The journey towards the park's eco-restoration began in the early 2000s, gaining momentum after Chief Minister Jayalalithaa's announcement in April 2013, earmarking ₹42 crore for the project. Today, the lake, with a current depth of 13 feet, owes its replenishment to a tertiary sewage treatment plant, releasing 20,000 litres of treated water daily.

As visitors meander along the pathways, they are greeted by a verdant landscape dotted with statues of wildlife, live ducks, and playful kittens. A quaint bridge spans the lake, offering a charming view of a tiny island crowned by a majestic tree. This serene sight, a stark contrast to the bustling Poonamallee High Road nearby, often captures the attention of excited children and weary travelers alike.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, the lake beckons with its divided sections. Anglers can try their luck in the three-acre fishing zone stocked with catla, rohu, and tilapia. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a leisurely pedal boat ride, operated by a private party offering 20 boats for an enchanting journey across the tranquil waters.

Chetpet Eco Park truly embodies the harmony between nature and recreation, inviting all to unwind, explore, and bask in the tranquility of its scenic surroundings.

Happy travelling.