Kuniyamuthur Anicut, also known as the Kil Chithirai Chavadi Anicut, located along Siruvani Road near Sennanur was restored recently by Coimbatore’s prominent NGO Siruthuli along with the financial support from Karur Vysya Bank.
The anicut was desilted to a depth of approximately six feet, restoring its capacity to retain monsoon runoff. Its bunds were strengthened along a stretch of nearly 1 kilometre, and structural repairs were undertaken to address damaged sections and improve the overall condition of the system.
A key component of the initiative was the rejuvenation of the 13-kilometre irrigation canal originating from the anicut. The canal was comprehensively desilted, encroachments were removed, and proper embankments were established to improve its flow and conveyance capacity.
These measures have helped restore the connectivity between the anicut and the downstream irrigation network, enabling water to be distributed through 23 sluices to the connected agricultural areas and water bodies.
Following the recent rainfall, the restored Kuniyamuthur Anicut has filled and is now overflowing, signalling the renewed functioning of this historic water resource. With an estimated water-holding capacity of 40 million litres (4 crore litres), the restored anicut represents a significant contribution to strengthening Coimbatore’s traditional water conservation infrastructure.
The impact of this restoration extends well beyond the anicut itself. With the canal network functioning more effectively, the four major tanks connected to the system can receive monsoon water annually, strengthening the region’s traditional water distribution mechanism. Improved water conveyance is expected to support irrigation, enhance opportunities for groundwater recharge, and contribute to greater water availability for agricultural activities.
The successful completion of this initiative highlights the value of collaboration between environmental organisations and financial institutions in addressing regional water management challenges. Through the support of Karur Vysya Bank and Siruthuli’s continued commitment to water conservation, Kuniyamuthur Anicut has regained its potential to capture and distribute monsoon rainfall, reinforcing the resilience of the irrigation network and the communities that depend on it.
