The Coimbatore city corporation, in collaboration with a local NGO and an educational institution, has commenced work to restore a 13-kilometer-long stream at Gandhi Maa Nagar by adopting a natural treatment model. This initiative aims to address the severe odor and pollution issues affecting nearby residential and commercial areas.
Stream Route and Current Condition
Originating near the Gandhi Maa Nagar police station, the stream crosses Avinashi Road near Fun Mall and flows through GV Residency before joining the Irugur feeder canal after crossing Trichy Road near Uzhavar Santhai. It runs for a total of 13 kilometers. Currently, this stream carries 21 million liters of sewage per day, filling the surrounding areas, especially Avinashi Road and GV Residency, with a persistent stench.
Project Implementation and Funding
To tackle this issue, the city corporation, along with the NGO Siruthuli, has initiated restoration work with funding from PSG & Sons’ Charities. In Phase I, which is currently underway, a 3.5-kilometer stretch from Gandhi Maa Nagar police station to Sowripalayam Road will be cleaned and desilted, along with strengthening its bunds. As part of the project, a 1.3-kilometer stretch from Avinashi Road to Sowripalayam Road will be fenced to a height of 6 feet from ground level along the GV Residency link road to curb solid waste dumping into the stream.
Natural Treatment Methods
A representative of Siruthuli explained that vetiver and kalvazhai plants, which have proven to naturally treat wastewater, will be planted along the stream. Additionally, trees will be planted on the slopes to support soil reinforcement on either side of the bund and improve green cover. The sewage flowing in the stream will be treated through phyco-remediation, a process using microalgae and macroalgae. These algae will be introduced into the wastewater near Peelamedu crematorium, allowing treated water to reach Avinashi Road and eventually flow into the Noyyal River. This method is expected to eliminate odor near key areas such as Fun Mall, PSG IMSR, and GV Residency.
Monitoring and Expected Outcomes
Water samples will be tested after treatment once a month to monitor improvement rates. The project aims to restore the stream's ecological health, reduce pollution, and improve the quality of life for residents in the vicinity.
