A view of the Singanallur lake in Coimbatore
| Photo Credit: File photo PERIASAMY M
The Madras High Court has directed the authorities not to proceed with the laying of a road or any further developmental activities at Singanallur lake in Coimbatore, noting that the land through which the road is being laid is classified as a canal in revenue records.A Division Bench comprising Justice N. Sathish Kumar and Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy passed the interim order in a petition concerning the restoration and maintenance of the lake. The court also appointed S.J. Mohamed Sathik, advocate, as an Advocate Commissioner to inspect the lake and submit a detailed report.The court noted that documents produced by petitioner Muralidharan, appearing in person, showed that the Tamil Nadu Government had floated a tender for formation of an earthen road from Vellalore Main Road to Trichy Main Road in Ward 61 of the East Zone. Photographs showed that a pucca road was being laid using heavy machinery.Revenue records showed that the road passed through Survey Nos. 459/2 and 460 and New Survey Field Nos. 43, 44, 45 and 46, all classified as ‘Vaikal’ (canal). The court observed that such work could not be carried out on the land so classified.The Advocate Commissioner has been directed to inspect the specified survey numbers and the entire Singanallur lake area. He will examine the road work, fishing, desilting and other development activities, the physical features of the lake, migratory birds, encroachments and activities undertaken by government agencies and private individuals.He has also been asked to ascertain whether sewage is being discharged into the lake. If necessary, he may collect samples of sludge or water for laboratory testing and submit photographs, videographs and sketches along with his report.The Corporation has been directed to provide records of earlier works and vegetation-related activities in the area, including works undertaken through NGOs.The matter has been posted to September 18 for the filing of the Advocate Commissioner’s report. Published - August 11, 2026 07:27 pm IST
