Kousika river revival project in Coimbatore receives funding support
The initiative to revive the Kousika river in Coimbatore has received ₹50 lakh from the Martin Group as financial support for the project.
In a joint effort, Rotary District 3201 and the Kousika Neerkarangal organisation undertook the restoration of Kousika River, a 52-km-long tributary of the Noyyal, in October 2024. The first phase of the land survey, covering a six-km stretch from Vaiyampalayam to Devampalayam, was completed in January this year, as part of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a 20-km revival plan.
Speaking to the press here on Wednesday, P.K. Selvaraj, founder of Kousika Neerkarangal, said the river had fallen into disuse due to lack of maintenance, resulting in a decline in water level. Invasive vegetation such as juliflora must be cleared, followed by desilting and strengthening of bunds. 'Based on the survey findings, we have sought permission from the Public Works Department. Once obtained, the works can be completed within three months,' he said.
According to the proposal, the phase one involves the restoration of percolation points, four check dams, six bridges, and various culverts, at an estimated cost of ₹70 lakh. In three locations where the river path is obstructed by local access routes, alternatives have to be proposed as part of the restoration plan.
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