Semmozhi Poonga: Coimbatore’s Mega Green Oasis Nears Completion!

The long-awaited Semmozhi Poonga on the central prison grounds at Gandhipuram is almost ready, 73% of the work is over, say Coimbatore Corporation officials. Within months, a combined 157.25 acres of this project could bring extensive access, much more than its currently planned 100 campsites, to the region.

The park, which will include 22 themed gardens, an organic food court and a world-class convention centre, is estimated to cost ₹161.05 crores. It is building solar panels, sculptures, and battery-operated vehicles for phase one of the convention centre at a cost of ₹93.44 crore, along with the convention centre at ₹25.56 crore. ₹7.83 crore also to transport treated sewage from the Ukkadam Sewage Treatment Plant to be used to maintain greenery inside the park.

This may include ₹7.02 crore for the construction of parking areas, ₹19.40 crore for underground water storage, stormwater drainage, electricity and communication systems, and ₹7.80 crore for audio-visual equipment at the convention center. The sprawling, 4,830 square meter convention center will be able to host 1,000 individuals.

This body of work is at varying stages of completion:

• Entry ticket counter – 65%

• Open-air auditorium – 80%

• Compound wall – 95%

• Toilets – 80%

• Gardeners’ rooms – 60%

• Food court – 60%

• Entry arch – 80%

• Retail sale counters – 60%

A six-kilometer-long pipeline is being laid to supply treated water for the maintenance of the park. The master plan incorporates a ground-level parking facility for 380 cars and 10 buses, facilitating visitors’ entry into the disease prevention center.

Semmozhi Poonga, with an eco-friendly design, and apt recreational spaces along with basic amenities, is set to be a landmark attraction for Coimbatore. The remaining work is expected to be completed soon, and officials are optimistic that the city is well on its way to an appealing green oasis.