Construction and demolition (C&D) waste dumped along roadsides and waterbodies continues to pose safety and environmental concerns across Coimbatore, with environmentalists and commuters urging the Corporation to strengthen regulation of debris disposal.

The Ukkadam–Selvapuram bypass is among the stretches where heaps of broken concrete, bricks, and excavated soil have accumulated along the roadside.

“Whenever there is a strong breeze, dust from the debris blows across the road, reducing visibility for two-wheeler riders. During the rains, mud spreads onto the carriageway, making the stretch hazardous,” said K. Ramesh, a commuter.

R. Manikandan of Kovai Kulangal Paadhukappu Amaippu said that large quantities of construction debris were also being dumped into watercourses.

“The dumping is clearly visible in the Noyyal near the Nanjundapuram bridge and near the bridge on the Vellalore–Singanallur Road. Debris has also accumulated along the banks of the Sanganoor Canal and Ganapathy Pallam. Such dumping reduces the carrying capacity of these watercourses and affects their ecology,” he said.

Mr. Manikandan said the Corporation should treat C&D waste as a recyclable resource rather than waste for disposal. “Unlike municipal solid waste, construction debris can be processed and reused for road works, paving blocks and other construction applications. The Corporation should establish designated collection centres, regulate private operators transporting debris and ensure that all C&D waste reaches authorised processing facilities. This can curb illegal dumping while generating revenue from recycled materials,” he said.

Corporation officials said a separate team was engaged in removing roadside mud and accumulated soil across the city.

The Corporation had earlier this year proposed establishing C&D waste collection centres in each of its five zones. However, the proposal did not receive the Council’s approval over concerns that the facilities could generate dust pollution.

The officials said the Corporation was finalising a plan to introduce a city-wide system for scientific handling of construction and demolition waste.

Published - August 01, 2026 08:30 pm IST