The Hindu               27.12.2013

Second phase of concrete-lining of canal to prevent pollution

The second phase of concrete-lining project of Kalingarayan Canal is at tender stage.

Civil works of the project for which the State Government has sanctioned Rs. 41 crore were likely to commence during February. The project envisages concrete lining of the canal to a distance of three miles and three furlongs over a six-month duration, official sources said.

In the first phase, concrete-lining of the canal was taken up to a distance of six miles and four furlongs from the starting point at an expenditure of Rs. 50 crore.

The second phase of the project also involves extending construction of a baby canal meant to carry sewage water and industrial effluents into the Cauvery.

In the absence of the baby canal, dyeing industries continue to divert their effluent directly into the canal.

While the second phase of the project would prevent pollution of the canal to a significant extent, the water body could be completely safeguarded from pollution only if it is concrete-lined till the 14th mile, sources said.

The project also serves the purpose of ensuring the reach of the water to the tail-end areas, as the project enables preventing loss of water due to seepage, the sources said.

The Hindu               27.12.2013

Time-bound water connection release system introduced

Special Correspondent

The Coimbatore Corporation has introduced a system of releasing water connection in a time-bound manner.

Mayor S.M. Velusamy said that the applications received for new water connections in 100 wards in five zones of the Corporation would be processed and the applicants would be intimated by post on the charges to be remitted.

Within seven days from the receipt of the intimation, the applicants should remit the charges at any of the tax collection centres. After that, the work order would be sent to the applicants through SMS and post. Water connection would be provided within 15 days of issuing the work order.

The applicants could send the details of grievances, if any, by SMS to 92822-02422 and could contact the respective Zone Assistant Commissioners.

Action

Stringent action would be initiated if lapses were found, Mr.Velusamy said.

People could call the Assistant Commissioners at the following phone numbers: Central Zone at 94438-68230, East Zone at 94437-99207, North Zone at 94425-01877, West Zone at 94892-06055 and South Zone at 94421-04128.