COIMBATORE: The Coimbatore Corporation is planning to set up a boathouse in Ukkadam Periyakulam tank, even as operation of the Singanallur Boat House has come to a standstill due to spread of hyacinth.
According to sources, Periyakulam tank would be renovated and a boathouse built at Rs 13 crore. Since the growing industrial city lacks entertainment facility, the proposed boathouse at Ukkadam, in the heart of the city, would be a boon.
The boating operations in the only existing entertainment facility - Singanallur Boat House - have come to a virtual halt due to poor maintenance and the growth of hyacinth (weeds) caused due to the failure to prevent ditch water from flowing into the tank.
According to the plan, a huge compound wall would be constructed at Rs 2 crore around the tank to prevent unauthorised persons from entering the place. Modern toilet for tourists will be built at Rs 20 lakh.
Having learnt a lesson from the unsuccessful operation of Singanallur boathouse, the officials said they have planned to establish a treatment plant at Ukkadam at Rs 1 crore so that they can prevent growth of hyacinth. The boathouse structure will be built at Rs 1.36 crore.
According to an official, the renovation of Ukkadam Periyakulam tank and the new boathouse would be done with the funds from central and state governments after the Lok Sabha elections.
Regarding the revival of Singanallur boathouse, the official said: “As discharge of drainage water has boosted the growth of weeds, the corporation has to take measures to arrest the flow of ditch water. This is possible only after implementing the underground drainage scheme. Already a part of the underground drainage (UGD) scheme has commenced. Singanallur boathouse will be revived after the implementation of underground drainage scheme.”