Coimbatore Smart City ready by next month

IndiGlobal Bureau

The second largest city after Chennai in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore has been given a face lift and is in the final stages of getting all the features of a smart city. In all, 54 projects undertaken under the smart city project are almost completed. Spearheaded by the dynamic Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation Commissioner, M Prathap, the city is ready for an upward tick.

Out of the 54 projects, 43 projects have already reached completion, and the remaining projects are in their closing stages and would be completed in September. Speaking to IndiGlobal Media Network, Mr NVB Seshadri, an urban planning expert said, “Rejuvenation of lakes, provision of recreation, pedestrianisation, and fillip to green energy sources are the main objectives of the smart city project in Coimbatore.”

Coimbatore Corporation has gained recognition for its exemplary performance among the 11 urban local bodies within the state. The city’s proactive approach to implementing projects funded by the Central Government’s Smart Cities Mission program has positioned it as a leader in urban development.

Launched on June 25, 2015, the Smart Cities Mission strives to enrich the lives of citizens through the implementation of intelligent solutions. This initiative seeks to enhance core infrastructure, foster a clean and sustainable environment, and ultimately ensure a high standard of living for all residents.

Lakes restored, birds come back

The lakes restoration project started in 2017. Notable restoration was of the Periyakulam Lake, spreading across 300 acres. A local resident says, “If not for the smart city project, the lake would have been encroached and the younger generation does not know that the old lakes used to supply drinking water once. Now that these water bodies are restored, there is hope for a clean environment.”

The project, which commenced in 2017, aimed not only to restore the lakes’ natural ecosystem but also to create vibrant recreational spaces in this rapidly developing city. The lakes' restoration has also attracted migratory birds to the area. It may be noted that seven lakes in the past were used for irrigation.

Recently, Coimbatore‘s Municipal Commissioner, M Prathap, who also serves as the CEO of Coimbatore Smart City, presented a PowerPoint on Friday detailing the city’s ambitious initiatives at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC). The project, which commenced in 2017, aimed not only to restore the lakes’ natural ecosystem but also to create vibrant recreational spaces in this rapidly developing city.

Over 92% of the Smart City project is already complete, with the remaining work scheduled for completion by September. The lakes’ revival incurred a cost of approximately Rs 350 crore. These lakes, built by the Chola kings in the 8th century, now serve as hubs for recreational activities, drawing people from various walks of life, including IT professionals, seeking relaxation amidst the beauty of nature.

Periyakulam Lakefront revival

The Periyakulam Lakefront has now become the go to place for the people of Coimbatore. Just a few years ago, no one would bother to even venture nearby due to the stench. Today, cleared of hyacinth and stench, the lake with cycle track attracts young and the old. The aesthetically done amphitheatre provides space for cultural events and for bird lovers; the lake is the spot as migratory birds have once again coming back in large number. Boating and water sports are also a major attraction.

Water treatment plants have significantly improved water quality, while sculptures made from municipal metallic waste adorn the Periyakulam lakefront, adding to its charm.

Besides Periyakulam, the Smart City project also revitalized six other lakes. Illegal encroachments on the lakefronts have been completely removed, and approximately 28 acres of land have been reclaimed for public use.