Proposed road works along Noyyal in Coimbatore draws criticism from environmentalists

Environmentalists criticize proposed roadworks along Coimbatore's Noyyal river, arguing it overlooks sewage issues and harms the ecosystem.

Environmental activists have raised concerns over the road laying and beautification works proposed under the Noyyal river development project, stating that such components do not address the core issue of sewage entering the river.

Their concerns follow the State government’s approval of a ₹202-crore Noyyal river development project proposed by the Coimbatore Corporation.

The project aims to treat sewage along an 18.5-km stretch of the Noyyal river within the city limits and includes riverbank strengthening works.

As part of the project, three sewage treatment plants (STPs) will be established, including one with a capacity of four million litres per day (MLD) and two with a capacity of three MLD each. Sewage pumping stations and a pipeline have been planned to convey sewage to these treatment facilities.

Riverbank works have been proposed along a 4.3-km stretch from Athupalam Junction to Nanjundapuram Road, where a new road and public access facilities form part of the development plan.

While environmental activists welcomed the proposal to set up STPs, they said the road laying and beautification components were a cause for concern.