Puducherry plans Rs 750crore integrated riverfront development in four regions

PUDUCHERRY: The Puducherry govt has initiated plans for an integrated riverfront development programme at Rs 750 crore across all four regions of the Union territory, Puducherry, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe, to transform riverbanks into vibrant public spaces while protecting river ecology and promoting sustainable tourism.

The govt will submit a proposal to the Union govt for financial assistance under relevant central schemes. As part of the preliminary proposal, region-wise allocations have been broadly estimated at Rs 250 crore each for Puducherry and Karaikal regions, Rs150 crore for Yanam and Rs100 crore for Mahe. The allocations were made after considering the river stretch lengths and development requirements in the regions. The govt will refine the estimates during the preparation of detailed project reports (DPR), said a release from the directorate of information and publicity.

The rivers in the four regions have historically shaped the ecology, livelihoods and cultural identity of the Union territory. The Ariyankuppam–Sankaraparani river stretch in Puducherry is linked to the ancient port settlement of Arikamedu. In Karaikal, the Cauvery distributaries support agriculture and temple-based cultural traditions. In Yanam, the Godavari branch reflects the town’s distinctive Franco-Indian heritage, while in Mahe, the river plays an important role in inland connectivity and the local ecosystem.

However, rapid urbanisation, encroachments and inadequate river management have led to degradation of riverbanks and underutilisation of their tourism potential.

The proposed programme aims to revitalise these river systems through a combination of beautification, environmental protection and tourism development. The key components of the project include development of landscaped promenades, pedestrian walkways, seating areas, viewing decks and architectural lighting, along with the plantation of native species and installation of interpretative signage highlighting the history and ecology of the rivers, said the release.

The project will also prioritise river protection measures, including eco-friendly riverbank stabilisation, desilting where required, prevention of sewage and waste inflow, and restoration of riparian vegetation and aquatic habitats. In addition, river-oriented recreational spaces, non-motorised boating facilities, cultural activity zones and visitor amenities will be developed to promote tourism and support local livelihoods.

The implementation will involve coordinated efforts among PWD, tourism, local bodies, environment and revenue departments, with provisions for safety infrastructure such as railings, lighting, life-saving equipment and surveillance systems. Flood resilience measures and a long-term maintenance framework will also be incorporated.

The project will be implemented in phases with designs suited to the characteristics of each river system.