TL;DR (Summary)
Coimbatore’s much-anticipated Semmozhi Poonga, developed inside the old Gandhipuram Central Prison campus, is finally set to open on 26th of this month (Wednesday). Spread across 45 acres and developed at a massive cost of ₹167.25 crore, the park aims to become one of the city’s most iconic public spaces. The first-phase infrastructure is complete and ready for visitors, offering landscaped gardens, walking trails, cultural zones, and eco-friendly amenities.
Coimbatore’s Semmozhi Poonga to Open on 26th: A New Era of Urban Greenery Begins
Coimbatore is preparing to welcome a significant new landmark – the Semmozhi Poonga, a 45-acre green oasis built inside the historic Gandhipuram Central Prison campus. Scheduled for inauguration on the 26th of this month (Wednesday), the project marks one of the city’s most ambitious urban redevelopment efforts in recent years.
Designed as a modern urban park with natural landscaping, eco-friendly features, cultural spaces, and recreational walkways, Semmozhi Poonga is expected to transform the heart of Coimbatore into a vibrant, community-friendly green destination.
Transforming a Historic Prison Campus into a Public Green Space
The Gandhipuram Central Prison campus has witnessed many chapters of the region’s history. Now, with a visionary redevelopment plan by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation, this legacy space is being reborn as a public green zone meant for leisure, culture, and environmental rejuvenation.
The transformation aligns with global urban trends where cities convert unused or underutilized government land into open spaces – similar to successful models seen in cities across the world, including parks in Singapore and restoration projects under India’s Smart City Mission.
A 45-Acre Urban Green Jewel in the Heart of Coimbatore
The first phase of Semmozhi Poonga, covering 45 acres, has reached its final stage of development. Officials confirmed that the landscaping, pathways, irrigation systems, and basic public amenities have been completed ahead of schedule.
Key Highlights of the Park:
✔️ Expansive Green Landscapes
Large open lawns, shaded seating areas, and tree-lined walkways designed to create a soothing outdoor experience.
✔️ Eco-Friendly Water Features
Rainwater channels, natural ponds, and eco-irrigation systems implemented to support sustainability.
✔️ Cultural & Community Zones
Open-air sections designed for events, performances, and cultural gatherings — a much-needed space in an ever-growing city.
✔️ Fitness & Wellness Paths
Jogging tracks, cycling-friendly routes, and natural trails built for daily visitors and fitness enthusiasts.
✔️ Children’s Activity Spaces
Dedicated zones for kids, ensuring families can enjoy recreational activities in a clean and safe environment.
A High-Value Investment: ₹167.25 Crore for Coimbatore’s Future
The development of Semmozhi Poonga comes with a significant investment of ₹167.25 crore, reflecting Coimbatore Corporation’s long-term urban vision. The project focuses not only on beautification but also on environmental sustainability, rainwater harvesting, and biodiversity improvement.
With Coimbatore rapidly expanding both economically and environmentally, a green space of this scale plays a crucial role in maintaining urban balance – reducing heat islands, improving air quality, and supporting mental wellness for residents.
A Landmark Attraction for Residents, Tourists & Nature Lovers
Once opened, Semmozhi Poonga is expected to attract:
- Daily walkers & joggers
- Families looking for weekend outings
- School educational trips
- Photography & nature enthusiasts
- Tourists exploring Coimbatore
- Local cultural groups
Its location within Gandhipuram – one of the city’s busiest hubs – makes the park easily accessible from all major roads and public transport networks.
Inside the Making: Modern Engineering Meets Natural Design
While the park remains largely green and nature-centric, the development includes:
- Eco-focused construction methods
- Soil conservation practices
- Native tree plantation emphasis
- Smart irrigation systems
- Special zones to preserve existing heritage trees
The approach blends engineering efficiency with natural aesthetics, ensuring long-term sustainability and low maintenance.
Why Semmozhi Poonga Matters to Coimbatore
Urban planners and environmental experts highlight several long-term benefits of projects like Semmozhi Poonga:
🌬️ Cleaner Air
More trees and open spaces directly improve local air quality.
🌤️ Cooler City
Large green spaces reduce urban temperature rise.
🧘♂️ Better Mental Health
Accessible greenery encourages relaxation, mindfulness, and stress-free family time.
🌳 Biodiversity Revival
Native plant species help attract birds and support natural ecology.
🏛️ Optimized Public Land Use
Transforming unused institutional land into community assets sets a strong development precedent.
For more updates on major Coimbatore developments and local news, visit our Latest Coimbatore News category:
👉 https://todayscoimbatore.com/category/latest-cbe-news/
To provide context and credibility, here are authoritative references on urban redevelopment and green space planning:
- UN Habitat – Urban Green Spaces Framework
- Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
The Countdown Begins – Coimbatore Awaits the 26th!
With finishing touches completed, Semmozhi Poonga is set for its grand opening on the 26th (Wednesday). As work crews finalize landscaping and amenities, anticipation is growing across the city.
Coimbatore residents can look forward to a refreshing, beautifully crafted public space – a place where nature, culture, heritage, and modern design come together.
