Coimbatore-based civic organisation Siruthuli has urged authorities to remove the alluvial silt accumulated in the Pillur and Siruvani reservoirs, saying the step is essential to protect the city’s drinking water sources for future generations.
In a statement, the organisation said Coimbatore has seen rapid urbanisation and significant growth in population, industries, educational institutions, commercial establishments and residential areas. This expansion, it noted, has steadily increased demand for drinking water and placed heavy pressure on the existing distribution infrastructure.
Siruthuli pointed out that rising demand, coupled with reduced reservoir storage due to silt deposition, has become a major challenge to ensuring a stable drinking water supply. Desilting the two dams would help restore their storage capacity, it said.
The organisation added that desilting would also improve groundwater recharge and significantly strengthen the city’s overall drinking water reserves. It said the measure would help meet water needs in the coming years in line with Coimbatore’s expanding population and economic activity.
