Authorities begin implementing ban on use of oil,soap in falls

: A day after Madras High Court issued 33 directives to Tirunelveli district administration and other officials to improve facilities available at the famous Courtallam falls, authorities today began implementing the ban on use of oil, shampoos, soaps, detergents, among others, by people in the bath area of all the falls.
The division bench had given the direction yesterday while passing interim orders on a PIL by one R Krishnasamy.
It had appointed advocate-commissioners and given the direction based on their report. It had also directed the authorities concerned to file a compliance report.
The directive prohibited use of oil, shampoos, soaps, detergents, chemicals and shikakai, plastic items and washing of clothes in the bath area of all the falls and sale of these items, as the water is the main source of drinking water for the people in Tirunelveli district.

Executive Officer Lingaraj said Self Help group members would be involved in cleaning the place. Women workers had been appointed in women's changing rooms while parking area for vehicles had been repaired of pits. Similarly the toll amount and parking charge had been displayed at prominent places as directed, he said.