The Madras High Court has sought an explanation from the Coimbatore Corporation regarding the installation of floating solar panels and the conduct of commercial activities at Periyakulam (Ukkadam Big Tank) in the city.
The direction was issued during the recent hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in November 2024. The PIL sought a direction to stop commercial operations and remove the floating solar panels at Periyakulam, stating that they are detrimental to migratory birds and aquatic species and may interfere with the ecological functioning of the lake.
The floating solar panels at Periyakulam was installed to generate 154 kW of power at an estimated cost of ₹1.45 crore on October 2024. The Corporation has also introduced commercial tourism activities at the lake in partnership with a private firm, ECHT, since 2022, offering speed boat, pontoon boat, jet ski, shark boat, aqua cycle and kayak services. Zip line and zip cycle facilities were later added in 2023 through another operator at a cost of ₹62.17 lakh.
During the hearing, counsel for the Corporation requested additional time to file its response. The court was informed that similar concerns extended beyond Periyakulam, as high-speed diesel engine boats were being operated in several lakes located within core forest areas in the district, causing disturbance to wildlife and contributing to air and water pollution.
