In a renewed attempt to curb pollution, the Madurai Corporation has proposed a Rs 140 crore plan to upgrade the city's drainage network and prevent untreated sewage from entering the Vaigai River. 

Submitted to the state government, the proposal is based on a detailed project report (DPR) prepared by Tata Consultancy Services, focusing on long-term waste management and controlling sewage inflow. Despite the existence of a sewage treatment plant, untreated effluents continue to pollute the river, particularly through the Panthalkudi canal in Goripalayam, a major waste conduit. Residents and activists have cited nearly 36 inlets discharging waste directly into the river. They have called for immediate intervention and faster implementation of the Vaigai riverfront development project. 

Corporation Commissioner Chitra Vijayan assured that while awaiting funding approval, interim clean-up drives and monitoring efforts are in progress. With the Vaigai flowing 12 km through Madurai, concerns over its health have reignited public demand for effective, timely solution.