Demand Raised for Restoration of Polluted Water Bodies Near Madurai Collector’s Residence
Environmental activists have urged the Madurai District Administration to take immediate action to restore the Periya Puliyankulam and Athikulam tanks located near the Madurai Collector’s residence, alleging severe pollution caused by sewage discharge, garbage dumping, and illegal encroachments. According to representatives of the Tamil Nadu Rivers, Lakes, Ponds and Irrigation Tanks Protection People’s Movement, the water bodies have become heavily contaminated, creating environmental damage and posing potential public health risks. The organization has appealed to the District Collector to intervene and implement long-term conservation measures.
Key Environmental Concerns
J. Kanagaraj, Tamil Nadu Rivers Lakes Ponds and Tanks Protection People’s Movement, Madurai District Administration, Public Works Department, Water Resources Department
Periya Puliyankulam Tank, Athikulam Tank, sewage inflow, garbage accumulation, declining water quality, ecological degradation
Illegal encroachments, damaged tank bunds, allegations of inaction, repeated public representations over several years
Petitions submitted since 2014, complaints filed with multiple government departments, representations to the National Green Tribunal in 2023, renewed appeals during 2024
The organization stated that both tanks play an important role in rainwater storage, groundwater recharge, and flood mitigation within the city. However, continuous discharge of wastewater and the growth of unauthorized structures have reportedly reduced their ecological value. The movement claims that several petitions and complaints submitted to district authorities and government departments over the last decade have not resulted in permanent corrective measures.
According to documents cited by the organization, various official responses indicated that encroachments had been identified or removal procedures had been initiated. However, activists allege that significant encroachments continue to exist on the ground and that restoration works have not been carried out effectively. Concerns have also been raised regarding the condition of tank bunds, loss of vegetation, and the continued discharge of wastewater into the water bodies.
The movement has demanded immediate removal of encroachments, scientific desilting of the tanks, strengthening of bunds, prevention of sewage discharge, installation of monitoring mechanisms, and creation of public walking tracks around the restored water bodies. It has also sought a detailed inquiry into previous maintenance works and expenditure claims made over the years.
J. Kanagaraj stated that protecting water bodies is essential for environmental sustainability and future water security, and urged the district administration to initiate immediate corrective action.
