Media workshop in Puducherry to discuss the threat of urbanization to lakes and water bodies
Chennai experienced its worst floods in recent history. While unexpected and heavy rainfall was initially held responsible for the flooding, analysis has further shown that destruction of wetlands in Chennai, which stands strategically at the tail end of several rivers, was a primary reason as well. Town planners see only land, not water, and everyone wants buildings and more buildings. Cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, too, have lost their wetlands and lakes due to urban expansion, pollution and catchment loss.