Revise water plan for Kovai: BJP

Welcoming the budgetary allocation of Rs 250 crore for the Avinashi – Athikadavu project, Srinivasan said that they were apprehensive about the PWD estimated cost of the project, which is learnt to be Rs 3,000 crore. “The cost factor may hamper execution considering the cost- benefit ratio. Therefore, we have come up with a revised estimate at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore after careful consultations with experts. The revised plan suggests the use of pipes which will be cost effective,” the memorandum read. 

The delegation impressed upon the Chief Minister to hold talks with the Kerala government for the implementation of Anamalaiyar – Nallar scheme and Pandiyar – Ponnampuzha scheme, which were not implemented despite the feasibility. A plea was made to stop Kerala from constructing check dams on the Bhavani river as it caters to drinking water and irrigation needs of Coimbatore, Tirupur, and Erode districts. 

“The Noyyal river has been polluted with sewage, and there is no proper  maintenance of it. Therefore, the Noyyal river should be cleansed up by the government in partnership with non-government-organisations, private agencies, and with the participation of the public. 

A channel carrying Noyyal river water to Kothavadi tank in Kinathukadavu had been encroached upon, obstructing any in-flow to the tank. Desilting the channel would help increase the water storage at the tank which encompasses 450 acres,” the memorandum read.

They also demanded desilting of Siruvani, Bhavani, Azhiyar, and Pillur dams and restoration of the Kousika river flowing through Coimbatore. 

Vanathi Srinivasan told reporters that she also sought the CM to expedite expansion of the Coimbatore Airport, she added. Palanisamy gave her a patient hearing. The meeting lasted for over an hour.