Unchecked weed growth chokes Valankulam in Coimbatore

Unchecked weed growth chokes Valankulam in Coimbatore

Valankulam, developed under the Smart Cities Mission at a cost of ₹65.93 crore, is a key waterbody in Coimbatore’s core area, drawing regular visitors.

To enhance recreational activities, the Coimbatore Corporation, in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), introduced a boating facility at the lake. The facility included four four-seater pedal boats, two two-seater pedal boats, and one motorboat with an eight-person capacity.

However, the boating service has now been suspended as dense weed growth has covered the lake’s surface.

“The spread of water hyacinth disturbs the lake’s natural balance and creates a habitat for mosquitoes and flies, which can lead to the spread of bacteria in surrounding areas. It also affects fish populations and degrades water quality while posing a risk to birds that rely on the lake, including both local and migratory species,” said a water conservationist who did not wish to be named.

“With the summer holidays under way, visitor numbers to the boat house would have been higher if the lake had remained accessible,” said K. Anand, a regular visitor to the lake.

“We have started work to remove the water hyacinth, and the lake will be cleared soon,” said a Corporation official.