Thu Dec 11 14:33:03 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article based on the information:

Summary:

A portion of the Sivan Temple tank’s walkway and parapet in Thoothukudi, India, collapsed during renovation work. The walkway sank approximately six feet, causing the adjacent parapet to crumble. The collapse also affected the foundation of nearby transformers, leading to a temporary power outage. City officials, including the Mayor and Minister for Social Welfare, have inspected the site and pledged to continue the renovation while preserving the tank’s historical integrity. The incident appears to be linked to weakened rainwater harvesting structures and soil erosion. Mass fish deaths due to pollution have also been reported, with the dead fish being sent for analysis. Turtles found in the tank are being relocated to a protected forest area.

News Article:

Sivan Temple Tank Renovation Stalled After Collapse in Thoothukudi

THOOTHUKUDI, India – December 11, 2025 – Renovation work on the Sivan Temple tank in Thoothukudi has been disrupted after a section of the newly laid walkway and its accompanying parapet wall collapsed on Wednesday night. The incident, which saw a portion of the southern walkway sink approximately six feet, has raised concerns about the structural integrity of the project.

The renovation, funded by a ₹75 lakh Corporation initiative, aimed to revitalize the neglected tank with granite tiling, a surrounding walking path, and the installation of fountains in time for the upcoming Thai float festival. As part of the process, polluted water was being pumped out.

“The rainwater harvesting structures on the southern and the northern sides of the tank weakened after the soil under them had gradually caved in causing the parapet wall to suffer damage” said Mayor Jegan Periyasamy.

The collapse also affected the base of nearby transformers, necessitating a temporary power shutdown as a safety precaution. Power was restored after officials determined the transformers’ stability.

Minister for Social Welfare P. Geetha Jeevan has assured the public that the renovation will proceed, with a focus on preserving the historical character of the ancient water body.

Adding to the challenges, a significant number of fish in the tank have died, likely due to pollution. The dead fish have been sent to the Fisheries College and Research Institute for analysis. Authorities are also relocating five turtles found in the tank to a protected forest area.

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