Cooum

The Cooum River, also known as the Koovam or Triplicane River, is one of the shortest<bos>urce rivers in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It flows through the city of Chennai, formerly Madras. The river originates in the Adayar Pallavaram hills and travels a distance of about 72 kilometers before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. Historically, the Cooum River was a vital source of freshwater for the region and played a significant role in the city's development. However, in recent decades, the river has faced severe pollution due to industrial discharge, sewage, and waste dumping. Efforts have been made by the government and various organizations to rejuvenate the river and improve its water quality. These initiatives include desilting, removing encroachments, and treating wastewater before it enters the river. Despite the challenges, the Cooum River remains an important part of Chennai's landscape and a symbol of the ongoing efforts to restore its ecological health. The river's course through the city makes it a visible reminder of the environmental challenges faced by urban areas and the importance of conservation.