Bring fresh water to Koodal Alagar Perumal temple pond: HC

Madurai: Taking into account that discharge of drainage water into the Koodal Alagar Perumal Temple pond in Madurai has been completely stopped, Madras high court has directed the authorities to take steps to bring fresh water to the pond.The court was hearing suo motu proceedings initiated in 2011 seeking a direction to prevent pollution in the Koodal Alagar Perumal Temple pond and to notify the pond as a protected area under the Tamil Nadu Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1966.Earlier, the court directed the authorities to take steps to prevent discharge of drainage water into the pond. The court also directed to ensure that no vehicles are parked around the pond and to install a ‘no parking zone' sign in front of the pond.Pursuant to the earlier order, authorities submitted that pipelines laid by individuals to let in drainage water into the temple pond have been identified and notice has been issued to them for such illegal activity. Discharge of drainage water into the pond has been completely stopped by the authorities. All four sides of the pond have been fenced to prevent parking. The temple authorities also submitted that the dilapidated wall of the pond would be renovated.A division bench of justice N Sathish Kumar and justice M Jothiraman directed that the present status of the pond shall be maintained without any deviation. In the event of any violation by any individual, Madurai corporation shall initiate appropriate criminal prosecution. The corporation, in coordination with the water resources department authorities, shall also take steps to restore the water channel of the pond and take steps to bring fresh water to the pond, the judges directed and closed the petition.