Restoration of the Salaiyur check dam across the Kousika river near Annur began on Saturday (August 1) with financial support from the Rotary Club of Coimbatore United. It is being implementation by Kousika Neerkarangal.

The check dam, spread over about 10 acres and under the control of the Revenue Department, will be restored to store up to 5.9 mcft. of water from the Athikadavu–Avinashi Groundwater Recharge Scheme and monsoon runoff.

The project is expected to improve groundwater recharge within a five-kilometre radius, benefiting drinking water supply, agriculture, livestock and industrial needs.

The Kousika river, which originates in the Kurudi Hills of the Western Ghats and flows about 51 km before joining the Noyyal in Tiruppur, has remained dry for several years.

According to the organisers, check dams at Kovilpalayam, Vaiyampalayam and Devampalayam have already been restored through contributions from Rotary clubs, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and the public.

Kousika Neerkarangal managing trustee Selvaraj said the restored check dam will help raise groundwater levels in the surrounding areas.

Published - August 01, 2026 08:12 pm IST