The Erode Corporation’s Karuvilparai Valasu Ellapalayam Lake at Villarasampatti in Ward 31, which was developed at an outlay of ₹13.50 crore with boating facility, lies in disuse. The residents have urged the civic body to carry out maintenance works and reopen the park for public use.
The main water source for the 26.55-acre lake is seepage from the Lower Bhavani Project (LBP) canal. Work began in 2017 to desilt the lake, construct retaining walls, and strenghthen weirs. A park with walkway, play area, lawn, fountain, arch and solar lighting was also created. The park was inaugurated after completion of works in 2019. Though the civic body bought two boats, they have not been operated so far.
The park that was closed in 2020 due to COVID-19, continues to remain closed.
Olirum Erodu Foundation expressed interest to maintain the park free of cost. But the project did not take up.
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“Due to poor maintenance, the lake lost its glory”, said V. Amutha, a resident of Villarasampatti. She said that the tiles were damaged and bushes have grown in the park.
Corporation officials said that discussions were on to carry out repair works and reopen the park for public use.
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