Amid ongoing concerns over unregulated sewage discharge and garbage dumping in the Vaigai River, the Madurai City Corporation has submitted a special proposal to the state government, seeking Rs 440 crore to revamp key pumping stations and mains.

This is part of a larger effort to tackle long-standing environmental and public health issues. Despite several initiatives, including cleaning drives and sewage control measures, activists and residents continue to report untreated sewage and waste entering the river at multiple locations, particularly from areas like Vilangudi and Arapalayam. Environmental activist Raja M emphasized that outdated and inadequate pumping stations, such as the one at Kuruvukaran, need urgent upgrades. A senior corporation official confirmed the revamp would address much of the sewage discharge, with plans for a sewage treatment plant (STP) at Panthalkudi canal.

However, environmentalists warned that without efficient sewage treatment plants and better coordination, pollution in the river will persist, affecting both the ecosystem and public health.