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Ancient Dam Stones Uprooted: NGO Blamed
23 Sep
Summary
- NGO Siruthuli accused of damaging ancient stone structure.
- Water resources dept ordered NGO to halt unauthorized alterations.
- Archaeology dept confirms stone alignments were disturbed.
A dispute has arisen over the restoration of the Kurichi anicut in Coimbatore, with accusations leveled against the NGO Siruthuli. Environmental activists and farmers allege that the NGO has made non-technical changes and damaged centuries-old stone alignments during desilting and rejuvenation work. The NGO aimed to increase the water-holding capacity by creating a new pond, but critics claim earthmovers disturbed integral stone structures.
The water resources department has intervened, directing Siruthuli to cease unauthorized alterations and revert the site to its original condition. The district archaeology department inspected the anicut and confirmed that the stone alignments were indeed disturbed. While their historical significance is under evaluation, instructions have been issued to reinstate the stones and involve relevant authorities in any future earthwork.
Siruthuli's chief operating officer defended the work, stating it adhered to hydrological principles and that historical records for the stones are not definitive. Farmers expressed concerns about flood risks due to alterations in the riverbed. The district collector has ordered a joint inspection by the water resources and archaeology departments to assess the site, with further action contingent on their findings.
