Residents of Pattanam panchayat in Coimbatore district have expressed concerns after being excluded from the recent merger of local bodies with the Coimbatore Corporation.

Pattanam, located east of Coimbatore city, was initially listed for merger in 2010, but the plan was not executed. In a recent expansion proposal, the Corporation recommended the inclusion of one municipality, four town panchayats, and 11 village panchayats, including Pattanam. However, the Tamil Nadu government’s G.O. on December 31, 2024, did not include the panchayat.

Residents are frustrated with what they describe as poor governance at the panchayat level. They raised the issue during a Gram Sabha meeting on January 26, but panchayat representatives reportedly left without addressing the matter.

V. Barani, a resident, said, “For 15 years, there has been no development. Drinking water is supplied once every 12 days, forcing almost 50% of residents to buy water. Roads have been damaged for years, and the panchayat frequently cites a shortage of funds. With growing infrastructure needs, including the presence of industries and educational institutions, these issues have become increasingly difficult to ignore.”

R. Govindharajan of Pattanam Panchayat Makkal Mandram said, “Water access is insufficient. Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage (TWAD) Board officials stated that panchayats receive water only after the city’s supply is met. They assured us that merging with the Corporation would ensure a regular supply, and we are planning to petition the District Collector.”

He alleged that when residents pressed for an explanation, the president left the meeting, fearing they would lose administrative control over the panchayat if the merger happens.