The Coimbatore Corporation has decided to allow property owners to pay the one-time deposit and connection charges for underground drainage (UGD) connections in up to 10 instalments, with the amount to be collected along with property tax.This change aims to ease the financial burden on residents who may find it difficult to pay the entire deposit at once.The Corporation Council recently approved amendments to the UGD Connection By-laws to implement this revised collection mechanism.Under the new system, property owners can now pay the UGD charges in instalments alongside their property tax payments.The approved tariffs vary based on property size, with residential buildings up to 600 sq.ft.paying ₹110 monthly and ₹7,500 as a one-time deposit, while commercial properties have higher charges.

The move comes as underground drainage projects near completion in several parts of the city, with pipelines already laid but household connections yet to be provided.Officials noted that contractors face financial constraints, making gradual enforcement of charges necessary.The instalment facility is intended to ensure smoother implementation of the UGD system, preventing greywater from entering lakes and waterbodies.This policy change reflects the Corporation's effort to balance infrastructure development with affordability for residents.