CURRENT CONTEXT: The Tamil Nadu government has approved a ₹19.2 crore project to restore the ancient Chola Gangam Lake in Gangaikonda Cholapuram. The announcement coincides with the birth centenary celebrations of King Rajendra Chola Iand precedes Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit to the area on 27 July.

 ABOUT CHOLA GANGAM LAKE:

• Other Name: Also known as Ponneri Lake.
• Historical Significance: Built by King Rajendra Chola I as a “liquid pillar of victory” after his successful expedition to the Ganges.
• Scale: Originally covered about 700 acres with a 16-mile embankment, fed by a branch of the Kollidam River.

 RESTORATION DETAILS:

• Physical Restoration (₹12 crore): Includes desilting, strengthening embankments, and renovating 15 km of canals and spillways, aimed at irrigating over 1,374 acres.
• Tourism Promotion (₹7.2 crore): Infrastructure will include walking paths, fencing, parks, CCTVs, and environmental landscaping.
• Cultural Importance: A museum is planned near the lake to highlight its heritage value.