Encroachments stall revamping of Sanganoor Canal in Coimbatore

Slow progress in revamping Sanganoor canal due to encroachments hindering connectivity and traffic relief in Coimbatore.

The revamping of the Sanganoor canal, a long-awaited project among city residents aiming to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion, has been progressing at a snail’s pace due to the presence of encroachments along the canal.

The Sanganoor stream originates near Chinnathadagam in Coimbatore, flowing through key arterial roads in the city, such as Mettupalayam Road, Sathyamangalam Road, Avinashi Road, and Trichy Road, before merging with the Noyyal near Singanallur tank. The proposed revamp covers 11.50 km and involves building gabion walls along both sides, roads along the banks, and amenities based on space availability.

The plan includes constructing roads along the canal’s banks, providing better transport links and introducing recreational spaces and cycling tracks.

With a budget of ₹79.3 crore, the project is divided into two phases. The first phase, costing ₹49 crore, focuses on the 2.3 km stretch between Mettupalayam Road and Sathyamangalam Road. The second phase, with an outlay of ₹30.3 crore, targets the stretch from 2.31 km to 3.30 km.

Despite its potential benefits, the project has faced significant delays. Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran cited the removal of approximately 3,000 encroachments as a major hurdle. The displaced families are to be provided alternative housing, and the issue has been brought to the District Collector for resolution.

“The roads will be paved once the encroachments are cleared, which is the only task pending in the first phase. The overall project is about ₹250 crore. Once completed, it will significantly reduce traffic congestion in the central part of the city by linking four major roads,” said the Commissioner.