Large-Scale Demolition Underway to Clear Encroachments on Kannapiran Mills Road
The Coimbatore Corporation has started demolishing unauthorized structures built along Kannapiran Mills Road in Ward 50. The officials cleared 13 houses as part of the drive to restore the road’s original width. The remaining encroachments are set to be removed by the end of April, as some families have requested time due to school examinations.
Kannapiran Mills Road is a key link between Sowripalayam Road and Trichy Road, frequently used by residents from Masakalipalayam, Sowripalayam, and Annamalainagar. Over the past 25 years, a 200-meter stretch of this 40-foot-wide road was encroached upon by 30 families, reducing its effective width to 25 feet. The narrowing of the road caused congestion, forcing commuters to take alternative routes such as Udayampalayam Rain Road, Sowripalayam Main Road, and Peelamedu Road, particularly during peak hours.
In 2023, the Coimbatore Corporation issued eviction notices to residents occupying the encroached portion of the road. While some families vacated their houses after receiving government-allotted plots, others remained, delaying the clearance process. A recent inspection by Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabhakaran led to fresh eviction notices being sent to nine additional households.
Following the commissioner’s directive, officials proceeded with the demolition of 13 houses on March 25. The eviction process has been met with mixed reactions. Some families, having received pattas (land allotments), relocated before the demolition began. However, two families are still awaiting alternative land allocation, and two others have expressed dissatisfaction with their assigned plots. Officials have stated that efforts are underway to provide suitable alternatives.
Some residents requested an extension to remain until the end of April, citing their children's ongoing examinations. The corporation has granted temporary relief to these families, allowing them time before the final phase of demolition begins.
Once the road is fully cleared, Kannapiran Mills Road will be restored to its original width, improving traffic flow and accessibility. The corporation’s action is part of a broader strategy to remove unauthorized constructions that obstruct public infrastructure.
By widening the road, the administration aims to ease congestion and provide a smoother route for daily commuters. Officials have also indicated that similar eviction drives will continue in other parts of the city where public roads have been encroached upon.
The complete removal of encroachments is expected to be finalized by the end of April, after which restoration work on the road will begin. Authorities hope this effort will lead to long-term improvements in urban traffic management and public safety.