The Vaigai and Thamirabarani rivers, both crucial to Tamil civilization and with settlements along their banks dating back over 2,000 years, are currently facing significant pollution issues that necessitate urgent legal and environmental intervention. The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has been actively addressing these issues through public interest litigation, particularly focusing on the Thamirabarani river. In March 2024, the court directed local authorities to prevent sewage discharge into the river and to conduct inspections of identified pollution points while also renovating mandapams and padithurais along the riverbanks. The court expressed serious concerns about pollution starting from the river’s source and mandated the creation of an action plan to identify causes of pollution, prevent further contamination, and rejuvenate the river.
In December 2024, the court took suo motu action regarding the pollution of the Vaigai river after a study by the Madurai Nature Cultural Foundation raised alarms. Advocates have proposed several solutions, including the installation of pumping stations and treatment plants to combat water pollution in the Vaigai, as well as optimizing existing treatment facilities and managing household water discharge more effectively during peak hours. Continuous monitoring of sewage disposal by local administrative bodies has also been emphasized as vital for effective management.
Moreover, Muthalakurichi Kamaraj highlighted that in a seven kilometer stretch of the Thamirabarani in Tirunelveli city, over 17 locations are identified where sewage mixes with river water. He suggested forming a committee that includes corporations, municipalities, and panchayats to ensure constant oversight of clean sewage disposal practices. Drawing inspiration from successful river cleanups like that of the Thames in London, advocates are calling for similar initiatives in India to restore these vital waterways.
Recently, Tirunelveli Member of Parliament Robert Bruce informed the High Court that the central government has agreed to allocate funds for cleaning up the Thamirabarani, contingent upon the State preparing a detailed project report. This collective effort underscores the urgent need for action to preserve these historically significant rivers for future generations.
