Poor water and infrastructure quality hurts tourism in Poolampatti, Salem

Poolampatti, a charming lake location 40 kilometers from Salem city, has earned the nickname “Kutti Kerala” due to its popularity among travelers. However, owing to worries over the quality of the water and poor amenities, there has been a reduction in the number of tourists in recent times.

Situated at the intersection of the Salem and Erode districts, Poolampatti entices tourists with its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. On the other hand, concerns about unpleasant odors, discolored water, and a lack of upkeep and lodging choices have been made public.

Water quality testing have been started by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) authorities in response to these complaints. According to AE M Boopathi, steps are being done to resolve the problems. The water quality was ascribed by Executive Engineer G Udhyakumar to the development of thick green algae, which was made worse by the 16th Barrage’s closure at the Mettur Dam and water stagnation made worse by temperatures higher than 108oF.

Lack of accommodations and boating facilities is one of the main issues brought up by both residents and visitors. Every three years, a tender is held for the boating service, which has come under fire for having inadequate facilities and infrastructure. The leader of the tender, M Sakthivel, drew attention to the lack of drinking water facilities and boat ramps, both of which the Town Panchayat had pledged.

“There is no secure locker room for storing life jackets and boat motors,” said boat operator M Murugan.

“There has been a noticeable decrease in the number of tourists; March and April of last year saw 5,000 visitors, however this year’s numbers have dropped significantly to 3,000. The absence of lodging choices is the cause of this reduction, according to boat house ticket provider P Naagavalli.

Town Panchayat EO S Jeevanatham informed the TNIE that money has been set up for upkeep and the building of appropriate infrastructure, including boat ramps, and that they would be built within a month in response to growing concerns. Locals are skeptical, nevertheless, unless noticeable changes are achieved. They emphasize how urgent action is needed to protect the area’s natural beauty and tourism attractiveness.