Madurai, Oct 8
In a renewed attempt to restore the ailing Vaigai River, the Madurai Corporation in Tamil Nadu has submitted a Rs 140-crore proposal to the state government to upgrade the city’s drainage system and curb the discharge of untreated sewage into the river.
The move follows rising public anger over pollution levels despite previous clean-up efforts. Corporation officials said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) charts long-term measures to block sewage inflow and improve waste management along the riverbanks.
Simultaneously, the Public Works Department (PWD) has drawn up a separate plan to seal sewage entry points into the Panthalkudi canal in Goripalayam, flagged as a major contamination source.
Stretching nearly 12 km within the city, the Vaigai has become a catchment for invasive plants, garbage and untreated effluents. Officials admit that despite an existing sewage treatment plant, untreated waste from about 36 inlets still reaches the river.
The Panthalkudi canal alone channels a significant portion of this sewage. “The sewage and garbage situation in the Vaigai River is alarming. The corporation must act immediately to clean the river and ensure proper waste disposal,†said M. Raja of Vaigai Makkal Iyakkam. Another resident, Balasubramanian, a teacher, urged swift action on the long-pending Vaigai riverfront development project.
“Madurai residents deserve clean and healthy riverbanks. Timely action is essential to safeguard both the river and the communities along it,†he said.
Corporation Commissioner Chitra Vijayan said the riverfront development plan is awaiting state approval. “Works will commence soon. Meanwhile, regular monitoring and clean-up drives are underway to curb illegal dumping and protect the water body,†she said.
The renewed plan underscores growing frustration over the city’s struggle to control pollution in its key waterway. Past mitigation steps, including partial sewer realignment and riverbank beautification, have not stemmed contamination.
Officials said the new proposal integrates drainage upgrades, interception of sewage at multiple points, and stricter enforcement against waste dumping. If approved, it will complement the riverfront development initiative aimed at reviving Vaigai as both an ecological and cultural asset for Madurai.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Rs 140 crore is a huge amount. While cleaning the river is important, I hope there's proper transparency in how this money is spent. We've seen many such projects fail due to corruption and poor execution.
As someone who grew up near Vaigai, this news gives me hope! The river used to be so beautiful during my childhood. Proper waste management and stopping sewage inflow is the need of the hour. 🌊
Visiting Madurai last year, I was shocked to see the condition of Vaigai River. It's such an important cultural and historical landmark. Glad to see authorities taking serious steps. The riverfront development could really transform the city.
Why does it take so long for basic civic issues to be addressed? The sewage problem has been known for years. Hope this time they actually complete the work instead of just making announcements before elections.
This is wonderful news! A clean Vaigai will not only improve the environment but also boost tourism in Madurai. The Meenakshi Temple and the river together can make our city a top destination. ðŸžï¸
Along with infrastructure upgrades, we need public awareness campaigns. People should understand the importance of not
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