Coimbatore AIADMK Councillors Stage Walkout Over Semmozhi Park Maintenance Funds
The Coimbatore City Corporation's decision to allocate Rs6.70 crore for the maintenance of the newly-inaugurated Semmozhi Park has sparked significant controversy, leading to a dramatic walkout by AIADMK councillors during an emergency council meeting.
Emergency Meeting Erupts in Protest
The protest unfolded at Victoria Hall within the Town Hall on Friday, where AIADMK representatives vehemently opposed the passage of a resolution sanctioning the substantial maintenance budget. The councillors expressed outrage at what they perceive as an exorbitant and potentially fraudulent allocation of public funds.
Monthly Maintenance Costs Under Scrutiny
AIADMK councillor R Prabhakaran, addressing the media after the walkout, highlighted that the Rs6.70 crore allocation translates to a staggering monthly expenditure of over Rs55.84 lakh for the upkeep of a single public park. He argued that such a recurring expense is financially untenable and lacks clear justification.
"This raises serious concerns about transparency and contracting practices within the corporation," Prabhakaran stated. He pointed out that the civic body already pays approximately Rs170 crore annually to a private firm for city-wide garbage collection and disposal at the Vellalore dump yard. The same private firm has now been awarded the contract to maintain Semmozhi Park, creating what the AIADMK calls a conflict of interest.
Questioning the Rationale and Efficiency
Prabhakaran emphasized that the funds in question are derived from public tax revenue and should be managed with utmost efficiency and accountability. He suggested that instead of allocating such a high monthly outgo, the corporation could procure advanced equipment and implement more cost-effective management strategies for the park's maintenance.
"AIADMK is committed to bringing the truth to the people, especially if we are elected to form the government," he declared, hinting at potential electoral consequences for the current administration.
Details of the Maintenance Resolution
The resolution in question, numbered 58, was successfully tabled and passed during the emergency meeting. It outlines a comprehensive staffing plan for Semmozhi Park, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister M K Stalin on December 11, 2025. Since its opening, the park has attracted large crowds, necessitating enhanced operational management.
According to the resolution, the maintenance plan includes:
- 153 sanitary workers
- 3 plumbers
- 5 electricians
- 11 supervisors
- 56 security guards
The annual salary requirement for these personnel is estimated at Rs6.11 crore. The remaining portion of the total Rs6.70 crore allocation is designated for operational expenses, including:
- PPE kits for workers
- Cleaning materials and supplies
- Restroom accessories and maintenance items
- Garden-related accessories and tools
Background and Corporation's Perspective
Semmozhi Park, located on Dr Nanjappa Road, has become a popular public space since its inauguration, drawing significant visitor numbers. To manage the influx and ensure cleanliness—particularly to prevent infections—the corporation had been considering the appointment of dedicated staff. This includes not only sanitary workers but also security personnel and technical staff like plumbers and electricians for day-to-day upkeep.
The emergency council meeting was convened specifically to address and approve this maintenance framework, which the corporation argues is essential for the park's sustainable operation and public health standards.
The political fallout from this decision continues to unfold, with AIADMK vowing to keep the issue in the public eye and demand greater fiscal responsibility from the city corporation.
