HC reserves orders on pleas against construction on Vandiyur Tank bund

Madurai: The Madras high court on Tuesday reserved its orders on petitions challenging the construction of buildings on the bunds of Vandiyur tank in Madurai.
The case originated from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by advocate R Manibharathi, who highlighted the significance of Vandiyur tank as a vital natural resource supporting irrigation, recreation, and groundwater recharge. The petitioner pointed out that a government order (GO) issued in 2023 allocated ₹50 crore for the tank's eco-restoration, rejuvenation, and beautification, aiming to enhance water quality, prevent neglect, and create a recreational and ecological space for Madurai residents.
However, the petitioner alleged that contrary to the government's objectives, the Madurai Corporation constructed multiple commercial buildings on the bund under the pretext of beautification. He sought a directive to remove the constructions and restore the bund to its original state.
In a related PIL, M Pozhilan had earlier challenged the construction of food stalls in Sundaram Park, located on the tank's bund. The court issued an interim injunction to halt all construction on the bund. When the Madurai Corporation filed a vacate-stay petition, the court modified the order, allowing other works to proceed except for the construction of shops within the park.
Both petitions were heard together by a division bench of Justice G R Swaminathan and Justice B Pugalendhi. After hearing arguments from the state and the petitioners' counsel, the court reserved its orders on the matter.
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