The Water Resources Department has launched a massive cleaning operation to remove water hyacinth from a 14km stretch of the historic Uyyakondan canal. The project, costing over ₹60 lakh, aims to facilitate irrigation ahead of the Stanley Reservoir opening.

  • Over ₹60 lakh allocated to clear 14 km of water hyacinth.
  • Work initiated on the Azhvarthoppu-Alathur stretch.
  • The 1,000-year-old Chola-era canal supports 32,000 acres of farmland.

TIRUCHI: With the upcoming opening of the Stanley Reservoir at Mettur for irrigation purposes, the Water Resources Department (WRD) has officially begun the task of clearing dense water hyacinth growth from the city stretches of the Uyyakondan canal. This massive undertaking is designed to ensure smooth water flow for the agricultural sector.

According to department sources, the operation covers a length of approximately 14 km and is being executed at a cost exceeding ₹60 lakh. The work commenced on Thursday specifically targeting the Azhvarthoppu-Alathur stretch. Officials have indicated that six separate work segments are being managed under this initiative, with an expected completion timeline of roughly two weeks.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the ecological health of the Uyyakondan canal is directly linked to the economic stability of local farmers. Following intense pressure from farmers and civic activists regarding rising pollution and weed infestation, District Collector Pratik Tayal conducted a high-level inspection. The thick blanket of hyacinth not only chokes the water flow but also degrades the quality of water available for irrigation.

Restoring ancient irrigation systems is critical to ensuring modern food security and regional economic resilience.

Historical Background: The Uyyakondan canal is a marvel of ancient engineering. Built by the legendary Raja Raja Chola and later renovated by Kulothunga Chola, this 1,000-year-old lifeline traverses about 71 km between Pettavaithalai and Vazhavanthankottai tank. It serves a massive ayacut of 32,000 acres and feeds 36 different tanks, extending its vital reach into the Thanjavur district.

Despite its historical significance, the canal faces modern-day challenges. In the urban stretches between the Puthur Weir and Ariyamangalam, the discharge of untreated sewage has become a recurring issue. While plans to establish Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) along the canal exist, they have yet to be implemented, leaving the canal vulnerable to continuous pollution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will the cleaning process take?
The current phase of the cleaning operation is expected to be completed within two weeks.

2. Who built the Uyyakondan canal?
The canal was originally constructed by the Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola.

Did You Know?: The Uyyakondan canal is part of a sophisticated ancient irrigation network that has supported South Indian agriculture for a millennium.