Encroachments on Chennai lakes often begin with the construction of religious structures, such as temples. Unless citizens take collective action, such encroachments are likely to persist. Narayanapuram Lake has faced encroachments, with four temples and a church gradually expanding into its area. While the local residents rallied together and eventually succeeded in removing these encroachments and reclaiming the lake, the upstream Keezhkattalai Lake paints a much bleaker picture, with limited community engagement and involvement. https://citizenmatters.in/floods-faith-civic-action-chennai-keezhkattalai-narayanapuram-lakes-wrd/