An Advocate Commissioner (second left) appointed by the Madras High Court inspected Singanallur lake in Coimbatore city on Friday as part of proceedings on a petition challenging developmental activities in and around the waterbody.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
An Advocate Commissioner appointed by the Madras High Court (HC) inspected Singanallur lake in Coimbatore on Friday (August 21, 2026) as part of proceedings on a petition challenging developmental activities in and around the waterbody.S.J. Mohamed Sathik, who was appointed by the court to conduct the inspection and submit a report, began the exercise at 9.35 a.m. and inspected the lake and its surroundings for more than three hours. Officials from the Coimbatore Corporation, Revenue Department, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and Forest Department, besides volunteers, accompanied him.The inspection covered alleged encroachments, the lake’s biodiversity and the water quality. Mr. Sathik directed that water samples be tested to assess the water quality. He is expected to place his findings before the High Court in a report, following which further proceedings will be taken up.The inspection was ordered on a petition filed by environmental activist Muralidharan, who had raised objections to developmental works in the lake area and sought protection of the waterbody from activities that could alter its natural character.The petition also raised concerns over a 2.5-km road reportedly laid by the Corporation along the lake bund.The High Court had earlier restrained commercial activities at the lake and directed the Advocate Commissioner to examine the road work, fishing, desilting and other development activities. He was also asked to inspect the physical features of the lake, identify encroachments, examine activities undertaken by government agencies and private parties, and ascertain whether sewage was being discharged into the waterbody.Mr. Sathik will submit his findings to the High Court, based on which further proceedings in the case are expected. Published - August 22, 2026 07:11 pm IST
