According to Coimbatore Corporation commissioner R Rajendra Kumar, plans for all new structures within the corporation limit would be approved only if they satisfy the newly drafted guidelines of the corporation. The corporation council has approved the resolution which necessitates residential buildings, commercial and industrial structures to have proper rain harvesting systems.

Over the years the ground water level has been depleting in the city and surroundings following large-scale exploitation. It is estimated that the level could be down to 200 to 350 feet in most of the areas. Moreover, increasing encroachments at 17 of the 28 tanks have aggravated the situation. The council has also decided to impose penalties on those who violate it's ban/restriction on use of polythene bags. A ban was announced on such bags of 20 microns and below. There is a ban on use of recycled bags, of 20 microns and above, for storing food products. Those manufacturers violating the stipulations would be fined Rs 1000, the violating traders would attract a fine of Rs 500 and the errant user would be fined Rs 100.

Earlier addressing programme on `Environment & Social Accountability' here on Tuesday, organised by Confederation of Indian Industry, Kumar said Coimbatore along with two other cities in the country has been chosen by the World Bank for the International City Alliance programme - an interactive programme on best city management practices. The other two cities are Delhi and Bangalore.