Coimbatore’s city corporation is taking decisive steps to accelerate the completion of critical infrastructure projects, particularly the underground drainage (UGD) system and the 24×7 water supply scheme. These projects, while essential for improving urban amenities, have caused significant disruptions for residents due to ongoing construction work. The corporation aims to mitigate these issues and expedite progress to ease the daily struggles of citizens.
Corporation commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabhakaran provided an update on the status of the UGD project, noting that while 98% of the work on the Kurichi-Kuniyamuthur stretch in the south zone has been completed, other stretches have seen slower progress. For instance, the work on the Vellakinaru-Saravampatti stretch in the north zone is only 20% complete, while the Thudiyalur-Kovundampalayam-Veerakeralam stretch in the west zone and Ondipudur in the east zone are at 25% and 16% completion, respectively. Prabhakaran emphasized that the city corporation had issued strict orders to contractors to speed up work and ensure roads are restored as quickly as possible. The delayed work has left several major roads in poor condition, including the Kuniyamuthur-Palakkad highway, Ondipudur-Singanallur road, and Trichy Road. Notably, GN Mills Road, affected by the Pillur-III project, has been dug up, causing inconvenience for commuters. Residents have expressed frustration with the state of these roads. R. Jayabalan, a daily commuter from Thudiyalur to Saibaba Colony, shared his concerns, saying, “It’s almost a year since the road has been damaged.” A resident of Bharathi Nagar also pointed out that despite multiple complaints, no repair work had been undertaken to fix the roads.
To address the situation, the corporation has requested Rs 200 crore from the state government for road repairs, with the expectation that Rs 100 crore will be sanctioned in the first phase. The remaining amount is expected to be allocated in the next financial year. The road relaying will be prioritized for main roads, and efforts will be made to avoid interruptions in the ongoing UGD and water supply projects. The 24×7 water supply project is another critical part of Coimbatore’s infrastructure overhaul, aiming to provide consistent and reliable water to residents across the city. While the work has caused temporary disruptions, the corporation’s push to accelerate these projects aims to provide long-term solutions that will improve quality of life and ensure smoother, more efficient urban infrastructure. While the road and construction work have caused considerable inconvenience, the city corporation’s expedited efforts signal a commitment to overcoming these challenges and delivering better infrastructure for Coimbatore’s growing population.
