The centuries-old Arakankottai-Thadapalli and Kalingarayan canals are likely to receive substantial funding for strengthening and concrete-lining in view of their historic importance.
Formed about 300 years ago, the Arakankottai-Thadapalli canals that branch out from Periyakodiveri Dam across Bhavani River near Gobichettipalayam irrigate 24,504 acres.
The long-pending desire of the farmers for concrete-lining of the canals to ensure unhindered water supply to the tail-end parts in Bhavani and Anthiyur areas was fulfilled partially last year when two km. were covered on each canal.
The project was carried out at a cost of Rs. 41 crore in the first phase. In the next phase, the work will be taken up on a much larger scale, in all probability. Likewise, the Kalingarayan canal is also expected to be strengthened with substantial funding.
The World Bank is impressed with the heritage of the canals and an expert team will be visiting the water bodies next week to determine the quantum of funding, PWD officials said.
The Kalingarayan canal, which is now about 735 years old, is a 90-mile canal flowing in a serpentine formation in the district. Construction of the canal was completed by Kongu chieftain Kalingarayan in 1283, according to historic records. Starting off from near Bhavani, the canal ends at Kodumudi.
The Kalingarayan Pasana Sabai has been urging the State Government for long to release funds for concrete-lining the canal under third phase. In the two phases, over nine miles were covered for concrete-lining at a cost of Rs. 90 crore. The work included construction of a baby canal to prevent sewerage and industrial wastes from entering into the main canal.
