The Coimbatore Corporation has begun constructing a turf facility at the Kumarasamy Lake bund in the city, with about 30% of the work completed so far. The project, estimated to cost around ₹60 lakh, is being implemented to provide organised recreational infrastructure around the lake.
The civic body officials said that the posts required for fencing and lighting have already been erected at the site. Base preparatory work is currently under way, which includes levelling the ground and laying foundation layers required for artificial turf installation. The process involves setting up a granular sub-base to ensure stability and facilitate drainage.
Once the base preparation is completed, the next stage will involve fitting the lighting infrastructure. After this, the artificial turf carpet will be laid over the prepared base. This will be followed by the application of infill materials such as rubber granules to provide cushioning and playing comfort. Officials said the turf facility is expected to be completed within a month.
Meanwhile, users of the lake raised concerns about the condition of existing sports facilities. “The Corporation’s move to build a turf facility is one aspect, but under the Smart Cities Mission, a basketball court and a volleyball court were earlier built here using PP (polypropylene) interlocking tiles. These tiles have now come off in several places due to lack of maintenance, making the flooring unusable for play. The Corporation should first repair these courts and ensure proper maintenance of whatever is built at the lake,” said K. Venkat, a regular walker at the lake.
