Location: Tiruvannamali Sambuvarayar
district, Tamil Nadu
Area: 1822 ha.
Altitude: 216 m
Description of site: The reservoir was constructed
in 1957 across the river Ponnaiyar at Sathanur village. It is situated 30
km west of Tiruvannamalai. The catchment area covering 10835 ha extends into
the neighbouring Dharmapuri district. Water depth fluctuates widely, the maximum
being 39 m. The reservoir is perennial
Land use: The surrounding areas are under cultivation.
The reservoir is utilised for fisheries Possible changes in land use and proposed
development projects: A hydroelectric power project is being
set up at the site
Disturbances and threats: Owing to the high rate
of deforestation and mismanagement of lands in the catchment area, the rate
of siltation is high. It has been estimated that 779 million cubic feet of
silt has been deposited in the last 30 years and siltation is still continuing.
Impounding of water in six minor reservoirs constructed across the river Ponnaiyar,
upstream of Sathanur, is reportedly restricting the inflow of water to the
reservoir
Economic and social values: The reservoir irrigates
18212 ha of agricultural lands in Tiruvannamalai, Sambuvarayar, and South
Arcot districts. It is also the main source of drinking water for the inhabitants
of the region. The State Forest Department has established a crocodile farm
at the reservoir with the introduction of 1200 marsh crocodiles (Crocodylus
palustris). The farm attracts tourists in large numbers which is a source
of income. Fishery operations are being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Fisheries
Development Corporation. Fingerlings of three fish species, Catla catla, Labeo
rohita, and Cirrhinus mrigala, obtained by induced breeding, have been stocked
in the reservoir. The annual catch of these fishes is an important source
of income
Fauna: The reservoir attracts several bird species.
A census conducted in 1991-92 recorded Phalacrocorax niger (1,200), Anhinga
rufa (40), Ardeola grayii (180), Bubulcus ibis (160), Egretta garzetta (300),
E.intermedia (225), E.alba (45), Ardea purpurea (18), A. cinerea (80), and
shorebirds (about 7000), including, blackwinged stilt, red-wattled lapwing,
little-ringed plover, lesser sand plover, Kentish plover, and common sandpiper.
The fish species include Labeo fimbriatus, L. Calbassu, Wallago attu, and
several catfishes. In the surrounding forests, spotted deer (Axis axis) and
wild boar (Sus scrota) are found in considerable numbers
Related Tour Packages & Information
