Vaigai & Othakadai Desilt Drive Launched in Madurai City

Madurai is seeing a surge of civic action today with the district administration launching a large-scale environmental cleanup under the Ezhil Koodal initiative. A significant focus of this drive is the cleaning of the Vaigai River and the desilting of the Othakadai Kanmoi. With a ₹7.5 crore investment, Minister P. Moorthy has announced not only restoration work but also plans to build walking paths around the waterbody to make it more accessible and appealing to the public.

This cleanup drive is part of the Clean Tamil Nadu Company’s “Clean Drive 2.0” programme, involving approximately 500 sanitary workers and volunteers who have gathered today to remove waste, clear silt from canals, and beautify river edges. About 360 streets spanning 13 villages are included in this effort using 120 battery-operated vehicles, 10 tractors, and five tipper lorries. Additionally, 90 mobile vegetable and fruit vendor carts have been distributed under the National Horticulture Mission as part of efforts to promote organized street commerce.

Locals are participating enthusiastically; many are walking along the riverbanks, helping with clearing debris, or simply observing the transformations in progress. Residents say that Namakkal Street, around Meenakshi Amman Temple precincts, has already begun to look cleaner. Some have noted how the removal of garbage and stagnant water improves both hygiene and the visual appeal of neighborhoods. Vendors who often set up near river edges have expressed relief at better surroundings and expect a boost in foot traffic once walking paths become usable.

Authorities say this effort is not only to improve aesthetics but also to reduce flood risk, control mosquito breeding, improve public health, and provide safe, recreational space for families. The walking paths are being designed to allow for evening strolls, small group exercise, and community gathering spots. Lighting, seating, and green fencing will be included in the designs to promote safety and usability even after dusk.

Minister P. Moorthy emphasized that Ezhil Koodal is more than just a cleanup programme. It reflects a cultural shift in Madurai—one where public spaces are treated with respect, environmental responsibility is shared, and heritage spaces like riverbanks are preserved for future generations. Conversations in local tea shops and on street corners reflect a renewed pride in the city’s water bodies.

The work launched today marks just the beginning; desilting and cleaning are scheduled in phases, with completion of priority stretches expected in the coming weeks. Citizens are hopeful that this initiative will transform neglected waterways into lively walkable waterfronts, bringing nature, culture, and community together along the banks of the Vaigai.