Coimbatore Corporation to relocate over 400 saplings planted in Sengulam

Over 400 saplings planted by the Coimbatore Corporation in the water spread area of Sengulam near Kuniyamuthur are set to be removed following objections from the Water Resources Department (WRD).

Sengulam, spread over 265 acres, is maintained by the WRD. The Corporation had recently planted the saplings on the western side of the water body, close to and on the bund, triggering objections from environmentalists.

R. Manikandan of Kovai Kulangal Pathukappu Amaippu said the saplings had been planted densely inside the water spread area. Digging pits for planting and the growth of roots close to the bund could lead to soil erosion and affect its stability, besides interfering with the natural water spread area, he said.

“Planting trees to increase green cover is necessary, but such activities in and around water bodies should be taken up after identifying suitable locations in consultation with experts. The Corporation should have consulted the district green committee or the WRD before taking up the work,” he said.

Mr. Manikandan also questioned the choice of some of the species planted, citing Conocarpus and Lantana among them. Lantana is recognised as an invasive weed and has been associated with threats to biodiversity. He said native species suited to the local ecosystem should instead be selected for plantation around water bodies.

“This amounts to a waste of public money as the saplings now have to be removed and replanted elsewhere. The Corporation should consult experts and use suitable native species that do not interfere with the natural functioning of water bodies,” he said.

WRD officials said the Corporation had planted the saplings without obtaining permission from the department, and that the saplings would be removed from the water body.

A senior Corporation official said the saplings had been planted recently and the civic body had identified about three open space reservation land near the lake, for relocating them. “We are finalising the location and will replant the saplings there at the earliest,” the official said.