Coimbatore Unleashes Bacterial Power: A Green Revolution to Purify Singanallur and Valankulam Lakes

Coimbatore is on the cusp of a significant environmental breakthrough! In a groundbreaking move, the Coimbatore Corporation is set to deploy an innovative, bacteria-based bioremediation solution to tackle the persistent problem of raw sewage flowing into the city's vital Singanallur and Valankulam lakes.

This eco-conscious initiative, a crucial component of the Smart Cities Mission's lake restoration efforts, promises to breathe new life into these cherished water bodies.

The pilot project will strategically target a total of 16 critical sewage entry points: 13 inlets feeding into Singanallur Lake and 3 into Valankulam Lake.

These are the very arteries through which untreated wastewater currently contaminates the lakes, posing severe threats to aquatic life and overall water quality. The chosen bioremediation method involves introducing specialized, beneficial bacteria directly into these inlets. These microbial workhorses are designed to naturally consume pollutants, effectively breaking down organic matter and reducing harmful contaminants.

Corporation officials are optimistic about the potential of this natural treatment approach.

The primary goals are to significantly reduce the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) – a key indicator of organic pollution – and dramatically lower the levels of faecal coliform bacteria, which signify sewage contamination and potential health risks. By leveraging nature's own clean-up crew, the project aims to restore the ecological balance and improve the aesthetic appeal of the lakes without relying on harsh chemicals.

This isn't the first time such an innovative solution has been explored in the region.

Previous applications of bacteria-based bioremediation in the Noyyal River and various sewage treatment plants have demonstrated promising results, providing a strong precedent for its effectiveness. The success in those areas fuels the confidence that Singanallur and Valankulam lakes can also benefit immensely from this environmentally friendly technology.

The Corporation has emphasized its commitment to rigorous monitoring throughout the pilot phase.

Water quality parameters will be meticulously tracked before, during, and after the deployment of the bacteria solution to assess its efficacy. This data-driven approach will ensure that the treatment is not only effective but also sustainable for the long-term health and vitality of Coimbatore's urban lakes.

This project marks a significant step towards a cleaner, greener future for the city, showcasing a harmonious blend of urban development and ecological responsibility.