TL;DR
Semmozhi Poonga Coimbatore, a major 45-acre eco-park developed inside the Gandhipuram Central Prison campus, will be inaugurated on the 26th of this month (Wednesday). The first-phase works are complete, and the park – developed at a cost of ₹167.25 crore – is set to become one of the city’s biggest green urban spaces.
Semmozhi Poonga Coimbatore Set to Open on 26th – A Massive Green Oasis in the Heart of the City
Coimbatore is preparing to welcome one of its most anticipated development projects – Semmozhi Poonga, a sprawling green sanctuary crafted right in the middle of the bustling Gandhipuram region. Built inside the historic Gandhipuram Central Prison campus, this eco-park is slated for inauguration on the 26th of this month (Wednesday), marking a major milestone for the city’s urban landscape.
The project represents more than a new park; it symbolizes how old spaces can be transformed into meaningful public assets that improve community life and environmental balance. With its sweeping 45-acre land area, thoughtfully designed walkways, lush greenery, and nature-focused zones, Semmozhi Poonga is poised to become one of the largest public green spaces in Coimbatore.
According to senior officials from the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation, the first-phase works are now in their final stage. Landscaping, pathway construction, seating zones, water features, public utilities, and vegetation planning are nearing completion. The project, valued at ₹167.25 crore, is said to have been executed with an emphasis on eco-sensitivity, environmental restoration, and public recreation.
A New Identity for the Old Prison Grounds
Gandhipuram Central Prison holds decades of historical significance. For years, the land remained inaccessible to the public due to its nature as a correctional institution. The transformation of this land into a green public park is a strategic move that not only preserves the natural ecosystem but also repurposes an iconic urban space.
The redevelopment aligns with Coimbatore’s broader mission of increasing green cover, improving air quality, and providing accessible public recreation areas for families, students, senior citizens, and tourists.
What Will Semmozhi Poonga Offer?
While the full master plan will be revealed on inauguration day, preliminary details indicate a thoughtfully curated eco-park experience:
Nature Trails & Walking Paths
Kilometre-long pathways wind through landscaped greenery, making it a peaceful environment for morning walks, jogging, and leisure strolls.
Children’s Play Zones
Safe, well-equipped areas designed for kids, encouraging outdoor activity and family recreation.
Thematic Gardens
Inspired by natural ecosystems and Tamil culture, multiple garden zones are planned for botanical diversity.
Water Bodies & Relaxation Spaces
Man-made ponds, seating zones, viewing decks, and shaded structures give visitors several spots to relax.
Green Restoration Work
Crores have been invested in restoring soil health, planting native species, and improving the micro-climate.
Community Spaces & Public Comfort Facilities
Modern utilities, clean restrooms, drinking water points, and accessible entry pathways are part of the design.
Coimbatore continues to see rapid infrastructure upgrades, and the latest development is the Vadavalli-Marudhamalai Road Expansion Project. As part of the city’s ongoing urban improvements, this initiative aims to ease traffic flow and enhance connectivity for thousands of daily commuters. You can explore more updates about Coimbatore’s local developments on our Local News Category Page.
The road expansion work includes widening key stretches, strengthening the base layers, and improving drainage systems to support long-term durability. These improvements align with broader urban planning standards followed across major Indian cities. For comparison, you can refer to the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines here: https://www.irc.nic.in.
Local residents have welcomed the project, especially considering the increasing traffic near educational institutions, residential zones, and the route leading to Marudhamalai Temple, one of Coimbatore’s most visited spiritual sites. For tourism and cultural reference, see additional insights on Incredible India
As the construction progresses, motorists are advised to follow temporary diversions and stay updated with official announcements through Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation: https://www.ccmc.gov.in.
Stay tuned for more civic updates on TodaysCoimbatore.com as the city continues its growth trajectory.
Why This Project Matters for Coimbatore
Coimbatore is one of Tamil Nadu’s fastest-growing cities. Amid rapid industrial growth, infrastructure expansion, and increasing urban density, preserving green spaces becomes essential. Parks like Semmozhi Poonga help balance development with sustainability.
Key Value Additions to the City:
✔ Improves air quality
✔ Reduces heat island effect
✔ Offers free recreation for residents
✔ Enhances community wellbeing
✔ Promotes eco-tourism
✔ Increases property value and urban appeal
The project also supports the city’s long-term environmental roadmap, which focuses on river restoration, waterbody conservation, and increasing per-capita green space.
Inauguration on 26th – What to Expect?
The park will be inaugurated by senior officials from the Tamil Nadu Government and Coimbatore Corporation. Local leaders, environmental specialists, and urban planners are expected to attend.
Residents can expect:
- Opening of walking tracks
- Public access to Phase 1 gardens
- Guided tour of completed sections
- Announcement of Phase 2 plans
More details regarding entry timings, ticketing (if any), and visitor guidelines will be disclosed during the ceremony.
A Fresh Green Landmark for the Next Generation
Semmozhi Poonga is set to become an iconic landmark — one that blends the soul of traditional Tamil ecology with modern urban planning. With sprawling greenery and serene landscapes, the park will provide a much-needed escape from the busy city environment.
Families can enjoy weekend picnics, elders can take peaceful walks, fitness enthusiasts can use the tracks, and students can explore botanical resources. It’s a space created for everyone.
Financial & Development Breakdown
- Total project cost: ₹167.25 crore
- Area: 45 acres
- Authority: Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation
- Development Goal: Eco-park, recreation space, environmental restoration
- Phase 1 Status: Completed
- Phase 2: Expected soon, focusing on additional amenities and beautification
This project is also expected to enhance Gandhipuram’s overall infrastructure, boosting urban value and creating a healthier environment.
Conclusion
Coimbatore’s Semmozhi Poonga is more than just a new park; it’s a symbol of how urban communities can reclaim land, restore nature, and create meaningful public spaces. Opening on the 26th, the new eco-park promises to enrich the city’s environment and quality of life.
As Coimbatore grows, spaces like Semmozhi Poonga will stand as reminders that development and nature can – and should – coexist beautifully.
