The district administration is taking another shot at reviving the Canoli canal that has for long been an eyesore to city residents.
The Revenue Department has prepared a blueprint after conducting a preliminary survey of the 11.5-km waterbody that connects the Kallayi river with Elathur. “With people’s participation, the canal can be restored to its original glory,” District Collector U.V. Jose told The Hindu.
He added that a mass survey would be conducted on August 26 involving engineering colleges and other technical institutions to verify the physical features of the canal. “The plan is to conduct engineering, environment, and socio-economic surveys,” the Collector said.
Based on the survey, the Town Planning Department and the Indian Institute of Architects will jointly prepare a design for reviving the canal. Every government department will have a role to play in the revival of the waterbody, as one of the biggest challenges is to reclaim the encroached land near it.
The preliminary survey looked at issues such as dumping of waste, encroachments, and destruction of walls at several places. However, only a few instances of encroachments were brought to the notice of the district administration. Incidentally, massive encroachments were detected near the Kallayi river.
“Close to 25 acres have been found encroached upon along the Kallayi river and the Canoli canal. Stringent steps are being initiated against encroachers. Recently, a private party was evicted from a land, valued at ₹40 crore, near the Sarovaram Bio-park on the mini bypass,” Mr. Jose said.
The canal was constructed during the British rule for inland water transport. However, it now faces issues such as weed infestation, waste dumping, and discharge of effluents and waste water from septic tanks. The polluted water poses threat to the nearby waterbodies.
“When canals and lakes in cities across the world are known for their picturesque nature, the Canoli canal remains a liability for city residents. But it can be turned around,” the Collector said.