Residents of Ganeshpuram in Madathukulam staged a dharna at the Town Panchayat office, protesting the encroachment of a long-used public pathway by a private individual for commercial construction.
Coimbatore: Residents of Ganeshpuram in Madathukulam, Tirupur district, staged a protest at the Town Panchayat office against the encroachment of a public pathway. The demonstration was triggered by the unauthorized construction of a commercial complex on a path long used by the community.
Over 50 families residing in the 13th ward of Ganeshpuram have been affected by this encroachment. The pathway, which has been in use for years, is now being occupied by a private individual who has begun constructing a commercial complex. This has created a dangerous situation where even emergency vehicles cannot access the area in times of crisis.
The affected residents had previously submitted a complaint to the Madathukulam Town Panchayat Executive Officer on May 31. However, no action was taken, and the construction of the commercial complex continued unabated. Frustrated by the lack of response, more than 50 residents besieged the Madathukulam Town Panchayat office and engaged in a dharna protest.
Following the protest, officials visited the site and assured the public that appropriate action would be taken regarding the encroachment. Based on this assurance, the protesters temporarily suspended their agitation. However, the residents have warned that they will resume their protest if the public pathway is not restored for community use.
The incident highlights the growing concern over unauthorized constructions and the importance of preserving public access ways in rapidly developing areas. It also underscores the need for prompt action by local authorities to address community grievances and maintain public infrastructure.