The Hindu : Front Page : Solution sought for Coonoor’s problems

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Aug 05, 2007
ePaper

Front Page

Front Page

Solution sought for Coonoor’s problems

D. Radhakrishnan

Water problem faced by the people needs to be solved on priority basis
Authorities should promote tourism attractions in the town, says Citizen’s Forum

Udhagamandalam: On one hand schemes sought by citizens are yet to be implemented and on the other, schemes implemented are not serving their purpose. With this observation a meeting of the Coonoor Citizens Forum (CCF) held recently, decided to pursue relentlessly various issues with the authorities concerned. The Secretary of the Forum D. Krishnarajan told The Hindu that though the response so far had not been encouraging, it would not be deterred from achieving its objectives.

Stating that finding a lasting solution to the water problems of the people was high on the list of its priorities, Mr. Krishnarajan regretted that a scheme from Guerency implemented a few years ago to augment water supply was yet to live up to its promises.He said the immediate need was to increase the holding capacity of Raliah and Bandhami reservoirs.

Underscoring the need for a multi-purpose City Centre, he said about four years ago a plan for such a facility estimated to cost about Rs. 55 lakh had been submitted to the municipality. He cautioned that infrastructure like the underground sewerage system would cave in if appropriate steps were not taken. Tourism-wise Coonoor had a great deal to offer and it was high time the authorities took note of this fact.

If there were artificial attractions like a rope car, the inflow of tourists would increase considerably. Facilities for higher education should be provided and the possibility of setting up an Information Technology park explored.

“We are most distressed at the fact that the Mettupalayam- Coonoor-Ooty national highway continues to be in an appalling condition despite assurances,” Mr. Krishnarajan said and added that without proper roads no hill station could hope to earn a good reputation.

Meanwhile, Coonoor Municipal Council Chairman M. Ramasamy said a plan for development of Coonoor at a cost of Rs. 186 crore had been submitted to the government. If the amount was released in a phased manner, Coonoor could be made a model one by 2025. Focus would be on expanding the bus stand and renovating the market.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Front Page