Coimbatore
186096
226178734
2008-07-17T04:53:54Z
125.17.33.223
/* Education */
<sup></sup>{{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction
|native_name = Coimbatore
|image_map = WikiprojectIndiacities_coimbatore.png
|latd = 11 | latm = 00 | lats = 66
|longd = 76 | longm = 58 | longs = 29
|state_name = Tamil Nadu
|district = [[Coimbatore district|Coimbatore]]
|leader_title_1 = Mayor
|leader_name_1 = R. Venkatachalam<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/2006/10/29/stories/2006102903830300.htm Coimbatore Mayor elected unopposed], The Hindu, 2006-10-29</ref>
|altitude = 411.2
|population_as_of = 2004
|population_total = 1965234
|population_density = 17779
|area_magnitude =
|area_total = 105.5
|area_telephone = 91-(0)422
|postal_code = 6410(xx)
|vehicle_code_range = TN 37 and TN 38
|footnotes =
}}
'''Coimbatore''' ({{lang-ta|கோயம்புத்தூர்}}), also known as Kovai ({{lang-ta|கோவை}}), is a major industrial city in [[India]] and the second largest city in the [[States and territories of India|state]] of [[Tamil Nadu]].<ref>[http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=&men=gcis&lng=en&dat=32&geo=-104&srt=pnan&col=aohdq&pt=c&va=&geo=-1881 Tamil Nadu: largest cities and towns and statistics of their population], World gazetteer</ref> It is the administrative headquarters of [[Coimbatore District]]. It is known as [[Manchester]] of South India. It is also a part of [[Kongu Nadu]] region of Tamilnadu.
Coimbatore is known for its textile factories, engineering firms, automobile parts manufacturers, health care facilities, educational institutions, pleasant weather, hospitality and for its Kongu Tamil. Situated on the banks of the [[Noyyal]] river, Coimbatore's name comes from the local Goddess here, ''Koniyamman''. ''Koniyattamuttur'', or "Koniyamuttur" later metamorphosed to ''Koyamuttur'' which is anglicised as Coimbatore.
==History==
Information about the origins of Coimbatore is scarce. '''But now madurai is second largest city in Tamilnadu'''.During the early period it was ruled by the [[Karur]] Sangam era [[Chera dynasty|Chera]] . Later, the region passed to the [[Kongu Rattas]] and was the heartland of the [[Gangas|Ganga kingdoms]]. A second Chola empire arose in the mid-9th century, and gained the territory encompassing Coimbatore. They established a planned layout, with the Koniamman temple in the center.
[[Image:SBI Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|right|400px|The Sugarcane Breeding Institute at Coimbatore, 1927]]
From the Cholas, then to the of [[Karnataka]] in 1291. By the early 14th century, the region was ruled by the Muslim rulers of Madurai under the [[Delhi Sultanate]]. The Muslim rule in Madurai was ended in the late 14th century by the newly formed [[Vijayanagara Empire]]. The Vijayanagara reign brought new settlers from [[Andhra Pradesh]] and Karnataka. In the 1550s, the military governors ([[Nayaks]]) of the Vijaynagara Empire took control of Madurai, with Coimbatore belonging to their territory. After the downfall of Vijayanagara Empire, the [[Madurai Nayaks]] established their state as an independent kingdom, with other Vijayanagar offshoots forming new kingdoms in Vellore, [[Tanjore]], [[Gingee]], [[Chandragiri]] and Mysore. The Nayaks introduced the [[Polygar|Palayakkarars]], who were military governors of their respective regions. By the 1700s, frequent fighting between Madurai and Mysore forces in the Coimbatore region resulted in the region being ruled by Mysore. At this time Coimbatore was still a village of around 3000 people.
In the 1760s, the Mysore throne was usurped in a coup by [[Hyder Ali|General Hyder Ali]]. Ali was hostile to the [[Great Britain|British]], who were gaining a foothold in the area with the help of [[Nawab of the Carnatic|Arcot Nawab]]. A series of wars between the British and the Mysore forces continued till [[Tipu Sultan]]'s death in 1799, when the Mysore throne was handed over to the earlier Mysore rulers. At that time the British annexed the Coimbatore region into the [[Madras Presidency]]. When Hyder Ali acquired Coimbatore, the population was around 3000. The village dwindled to 1500 by Tipu's death.
Coimbatore played a prominent role in the Second [[Poligar War]] against the British in 1801, when the first attack was done against the British Columns stationed in Coimbatore by the [[Poligar]]s of Salem, Coimbatore and Dindigul region along with some Malabar and Mysore rebels.
In 1804 Coimbatore was established as a capital for the newly formed Coimbatore district and in 1848, it was accorded the [[municipality]] status. [[Robert Stanes|Sir Robert Stanes]], a British entrepreneur and philanthropist, became the first Chairman of the Coimbatore City Council and also founded the [[Stanes School]] in 1862, a major higher secondary school that has stood until the present day as a jewel of the city.
In 1981 Coimbatore became a corporation with annexation of the Singanallur municipality.
==Geography==
[[Image:Sunset at ukadam Coimbatore.jpeg|thumb|500px|right|Sunset at Ukadam, Coimbatore]]
Coimbatore is situated in the extreme west of Tamil Nadu, near the state of [[Kerala]]. It is surrounded by mountains on the west, with [[Forest Reserve|reserve forests]] and the ([[Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve]]) on the northern side. The eastern side of the district, including the city is predominantly dry. The entire western and northern part of the district borders the [[Western Ghats]] with the Nilgiri biosphere as well as the [[Anaimalai]] and [[Munnar]] ranges. A western pass to Kerala, popularly referred to as the [[Palghat Gap]] provides its boundary.
Because of its close proximity to the Western Ghats, the district is rich in [[fauna]].
Coimbatore is situated on the banks of river Noyyal. Many lakes and ponds were constructed near the river during ancient periods. The Coimbatore city alone has nine lakes (wetlands). In most of the urban ecosystems, these wetlands are the major life-supporting component. They support high concentrations of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrate species. The Coimbatore Urban wetlands harbours more than 125 species of resident and migratory birds, with August – October being the peak season. Spot-billed Pelican, Painted Stork, Open Billed Stork, Ibis, Spot-billed Duck, Teal, Black Winged Stilt are some of the migratory birds that visit Coimbatore wetlands regularly. [43]
Apart from the species common to the plains, wild [[elephant]]s, [[wild boar]]s [[leopard]]s, [[tiger]]s, bison, various species of deer, [[Nilgiri Tahr]], [[sloth bear]] and [[black-headed Oriole]] can also be found. The [[Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary]] (88 km) in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1,400 meters covers an area of 958 km². Among the region’s livestock animals are [[Kangeyam]] breed bulls (cross-bred by Mandradiar family in 17th century to suit the terrain). This breed, which helped the region gain a foothold in the dairy industry, are found only in Coimbatore and neighbouring districts. More than 20% of the district is classified as forest, lying in the west and north. The forests here are abundant in commercially significant trees such as [[teak]], [[sandalwood]], [[rosewood]] and [[bamboo]]. The [[Nilgiris]] slope viz. the [[Mettupalayam]] range is rich in sandalwood trees and bamboo. They vary from rich tropical [[evergreen forest]]s of Punachi range to jungles of shrubs in southern ranges.
Apart from the high altitude regions of Western ghats, most of the forest area has come under [[Lantana]] invasion. The locals refer to it as Siriki chedi.
==Climate==
[[Image:Kovai terraced hillsides.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Terraced fields near Coimbatore]]
Coimbatore is a very pleasant, salubrious climate city situated in the western parts of the state of Tamil Nadu. Coimbatore is situated at an elevation of about 398 meters. The temperature in this part of India is quite pleasant throughout the year. The temperature during both summers and winters varies anywhere between 37 'C to 14 'C. The best time to visit Coimbatore is between the months of July to February, Highest temperature is 41°C and lowest is 12°C.<ref>[http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather.php3?s=12334&refer=&units=metric Weatherbase: Historical Weather for Coimbatore, India<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Due to the presence of the mountain pass, major parts of the district benefit from the [[Climate of India|south-west monsoon]] in the months from June to August. After a warm, humid September, the regular monsoon starts from October lasting till early November. These monsoons are brought about by the retreating [[Climate of India|North-eastern monsoon]]. Annual rainfall is 61cm<ref>[http://www.coimbatore.com/travel/weather.htm Weather in Coimbatore, India<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Although this rainfall is not enough to sustain the needs of the city for the entire year, small rivers like the Siruvani and Atthikadavu fulfill the city's water needs. The Siruvani river is the second sweetest water in the world and is well known for having water of the purist taste. This is because of large numbers of [[Amla]] trees present in the mountains where the Siruvani river originates; this making the Siruvani river one of the greatest assets of Coimbatore.
Coimbatore is generally a dry district apart from the [[Noyyal River]] basin and occasional over-flowing streams from the Western Ghats, which terminate in the city's large tanks. The soil is predominantly black, which is suitable for cotton cultivation, but it also has some red loamy soil. Coimbatore falls under the Class III/IV [[Earthquake hazard zoning of India|Seismic Zone]], having experienced a 6.0 [[Richter magnitude scale|Richter scale]] [[earthquake]] in 1900.<ref>[http://www.hinduonnet.com/fline/fl1627/16270870.htm Dams and earthquakes], Frontline, Volume 16 - Issue 27, December 25, 1999 - January 7, 2000</ref> The [[Salim Ali]] Center for Ornithology and Natural History is located at Anaikatty in Coimbatore district.
==Demographics==
As of the 2001 [[census]],<ref>{{GR|India}}</ref> Coimbatore had a population of 1.1 million within city limits and another estimated 0.75 million under urban cover. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Coimbatore has an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. Male literacy is 81% and female literacy is 74% with 11% of the population under 6 years of age.
The city's population is predominantly [[Hindu]], along with a sizable [[Muslim]] and [[Christian]] populations. [[Sikhs]] and [[Jains]] are also present in smaller numbers.The city has a large number of Telugus (Kamma Naidus and few [[Telugu]] [[Chettiar]]s), Palghat Brahmins, Malayalees / Keralites, [[Kannadiga]]s ([[Gowda|Gowda’s]] and [[Chettiar]]s) who migrated and settled in and around Coimbatore during the 16th century. There is also a large population of [[Gujarat]]his and Marwaris settled more than 100 years ago. Also people from [[Konkan]] coast of Konkani and [[Tulu]] origins have settled in the city.
Tamil is the most widely spoken language of Coimbatore. The dialect of the Tamil language spoken here is referred to as "[[Kongu Nadu|Kongu Tamil]]", often addressing younger person and strangers with respect, irrespective of class. Coimbatore's inhabitants have a satirical sense of humor, known in Tamil Nadu as "Coimbatore Kusumbu."
== Culture ==
[[Image:Temple in Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|150px|right|A Hindu temple in Coimbatore]]
The city has a multi-cultural society, mostly of [[Multicultural|cosmopolitan]] nature. Its inhabitants are largely [[Conservatism|conservative]] and traditional, retaining their roots in their native villages.
There are numerous temples in the city including the Perur Temple, the Konniamman temple and the [[Dhyanalinga]] Yogic Temple. The [[Mariamman]] festivals, at the city’s numerous [[Amman]] temples, are a major event in summer. A replica temple of [[Tirupathi]] is located in [[Valparai]] and another near Mettupalayam. A famous [http://www.iskcon-coimbatore.org ISKCON]temple is also located 9 km from the city. It is a famous temple dedicated for Lord Krishna.[[Marudamalai]], a well known shrine to [[Murugan]], is close to the city. Coimbatore has also been an abode for many [[siddhar]]s or [[rishi]]s, who were also experts in medicine, alchemy and astrology. The most prominent of them was [[Pambatti siddhar|Pambatti Siddhar]] who is said to have lived in Marudamalai. Many of his findings are recorded as poems.
The mosques on Oppanakara Street and Big Bazaar Street date back to the period of Hyder Ali. [[Christian missions]] date back to 1647 when permission was granted by the [[Nayak]] rulers to set up a small church in Karumathampatti (12 km). It was destroyed by Tipu Sultan’s army resulting in a new church in 1804. In 1886, Coimbatore was constituted as a [[diocese]] after bifurcating with [[Pondicherry]]. [[Sikh]] [[Gurudwara]]s and [[Jain]] Temples are also present in Coimbatore. Many locations in the city including Kottaimedu have Muslims and Hindus living together which is also considered very sensitive as these locations become the prime target of crime during communal riots as witnessed earlier in the city.
== Coimbatore cuisine ==
Coimbatore cuisine is predominantly [[south Indian]] with [[rice]] as its base. Coimbatore flavours are generally fairly mild, with variations to suit the local palette. Most locals still retain their rural flavour, with many restaurants serving food over a [[banana leaf]]. [[Indian cuisine#North Indian|North Indian]], [[Chinese cuisine|Chinese]] and [[Breakfast#Continental breakfast|continental]] cuisines are also available. [[Mysore pak|Mysorepa]] (a sweet made from [[lentil]] flour and [[ghee]]), [[idly]], [[dosa]], [[Halwa]] (a sweet made of different ingredients like milk) wheat, rice) and vada-sambar and Biryani are popular among the locals. The recent influx of coffee shops and pizza shops has increased and serving as hangout locations for the youth.
== Administration ==
[[Image:Street in coimbatore in tamil nadu.jpg|thumb|200px|right|DB Road, RS Puram, Coimbatore]]
The city is a Municipal Corporation as well as the district Headquarters. The city has two Members of Legislative Assembly representing the Coimbatore east and west constituencies, but about 20% of the city's territory is represented by the [[Nilgiri]] constituency which runs into the northern part of the city. The city has a Mayor, Deputy Mayor and several councillors elected by people representing administrative wards, as well as a corporation Commissioner to administer the city headed by the [[District Collector]]. The District court is the highest court of appeal in Coimbatore. Despite being the largest revenue earning districts, insufficient state government funds have resulted in the city's basic infrastructure being underdeveloped.
[[Indira Gandhi]]'s assassination in 1984 was followed by large scale [[1984 Anti-Sikh Riots|arson and looting]]. During the 1980s crime increased, possibly due to an abundance of liquor shops. Hindu – Muslim riots were frequent in the late 80’s, reaching their peak in the 90’s when a massive riot occurred in the Townhall and west Coimbatore area. Recently, the crime rate has improved, possibly as a result of increased police vigilance after the [[1998 Coimbatore bombings|1998 bomb blasts]].<ref> [www.rediff.com/news/1998/feb/14blast.htm] 1998 serial bomb blasts </ref> Unlike other major cities, shops and public transportation do not function after 11pm. [[Drunken driving]] and parking punishments are strictly enforced{{Fact|date=February 2008}}.
== Infrastructure ==
[[Image:Main thoroughfare Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|200px|Main thoroughfare in Coimbatore]]
The city has six major arterial roads and three [[Indian highways|National Highways]],
* NH-47 ([[Kanyakumari (town)|Kanyakumari]]–[[Salem, Tamil Nadu|Salem]]),
* NH-67 ([[Mysore]]–[[Nagappattinam]]) and
* NH-209 ([[Bangalore]]–[[Dindigul]])
passing through the city. The city has an airport ([[Coimbatore Airport]]) at Peelamedu (11 km from the city) and an air-force base at [[Sulur]] (15 km). [[Broad gauge]] [[Indian railways|trains]] connect Coimbatore to all parts of India, with a [[meter gauge]] line connecting the city to Dindigul (this is now under gauge conversion). The Coimbatore railway station comprises of less number platforms than the railway stations of [[chennai]], [[Tiruchirapalli]] or [[Trichy]] and [[Madurai]].This seems to be inconvinient to the travellers.A new [[bypass route|bypass]] highway completed in 1998 has helped reduce truck traffic in the city. However, the city's roads are still underdeveloped. This has resulted in the construction of large apartment complexes in areas meant for lower population densities.
The city has a very high vehicle-to-population ratio. Town buses started operation in 1921. Town bus services serve most parts of the city, as well as other towns and villages in the district. Buses also connect the district to all towns in Tamil Nadu, North and central Kerala, South Karnataka and Tirupathi (Andhra Pradesh). The number of mofussil routes operated by Coimbatore division is 119 with 500 buses.<ref>[http://www.tn.gov.in/transport/routes/routes_cbemu.htm, Moffusil bus routes], TNSTC, CBE.</ref>
The number of town buses in the city is around 800 in 228 different routes.<ref>[http://www.tn.gov.in/transport/routes/routes_cbetw.htm, Town bus routes], TNSTC, CBE.</ref>
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:cjb.jpg|thumb|200px|right|View of Coimbatore Airport]] -->
The city is also served by [[Auto rickshaw|auto rickhaws]]. However, rickshaw drivers have had a reputation for fleecing passengers, resulting in competition from [[taxi cab|call taxi]]s. Trains first began serving Coimbatore in 1872, upon construction of the Podanur (Coimbatore South) -[[Madras]] line connecting Kerala and the west coast with the rest of India. It is third highest revenue yielding zone in Southern railways next to [[Tiruchirapalli]] or [[Trichy]] zone.
International flights from the airport include a direct flight to [[Colombo]] by [[Srilanka]]n airlines, to [[Sharjah (city)|Sharjah]] by [[Air Arabia]] and to [[Singapore]] by SilkAir. The runway requires expansion to handle larger planes. The Second Extension phase is under construction. [[Coimbatore Airport]] is currently serviced by
* [[Air India]] - Sharjah.
* [[Air Arabia]] - Sharjah.
* [[SilkAir]] - Singapore.
* [[Srilankan Airlines]] - Colombo.
* [[Paramount Airways]] - Chennai, Hyderabad.
* [[Indian Airlines]] - New Delhi, Mumbai, Kozhikode, Cochin, Chennai.
* [[Jet Airways]] - Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai.
* [[Air Deccan]] - Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai.
* [[JetLite]] - New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai.
* [[Kingfisher Airlines]] - Chennai.
* [[SpiceJet]] - Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, Ahmedabad.
==Economy==
The city's primary industries are [[engineering]] and [[textile]]s. The district also houses the country's largest amount of [[hosiery]] and [[poultry]] industries. Most of the industries are run by [[entrepreneurs]], often indigenous with family based or community financing. The city's industrial growth started in 1920’s and accelerated after independence, without any government assistance or the entry of external industrial houses. The city serves as the homeground for most of the well known industrialists from Tamil Nadu. Of late, information technology companies have started opening offshore development centres in the city.
====Early industrial developments====
[[Image:RobertStanes.jpg|thumb|100px|Sir Robert Stanes]]
When the British occupied Coimbatore, the territory connected the [[Malabar]] ports with the rest of India (apart from [[Konkan coast]]). The British later expanded their railway network in 1862, passing through Podanur to [[Cochin]] for quicker transit of raw materials required in [[England]].
In 1888, [[Sir Robert Stanes]] founded the Coimbatore [[Spinning (textiles)|Spinning]] and [[Weaving]] Mills (also known as Stanes Mills) in the northern edge of the town after starting a coffee curing factory in Trichy road thus kick starting the industrial journy of Coimbatore. The Stanes textile mill he started is the forerunner to the huge textile industry of world repute which Coimbatore has today. Sir Robert Stanes would later assist several others in setting up their ventures.<ref>[http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2005/07/23/stories/2005072302040300.htm Remembering Coimbatore's pioneer], The Hindu</ref>He was to be awarded the Kaiser-I-Hind gold medal for services to Coimbatore and to education and was subsequently knighted in 1920 for his high sense of honour.
Two more mills (Kalleeswara and Somasundra mills) were established in 1910. [[Lakshmi Mills|Lakshmi Mills Company]] commenced their operations in 1911 in Papanaickenpalayam.
By the 1930s, several textile mills had been established around Coimbatore due to the cheap power offered by the Pykara power station.
In 1900, Swamikannu Vincent, a railway engineer, built the first cinema in South India, the "Variety Hall" (now Delite Theatres). His son Paul Vincent introduced talking motion pictures in South India. In 1922, Narayanaswamy Naidu started a workshop to repair cane crushers and cotton ginning machines. Two years later, he established the Dhandayuthapani Foundry.<ref>[http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2004/02/02/stories/2004020201050100.htm Coimbatore's wealth creators], The Hindu</ref> Around the same time, [[G.D.Naidu]] started his unique bus service. He is also credited for manufacturing the first electric motor in India. In 1931, [[Pollachi]] Nachimuthu Gounder stated his transport business which grew into a multi-[[crore]] industrial and trading house. In the 1940s, a [[Sheffield University]] graduate, S. Balasundaram Naidu from Avarampalayam in Coimbatore, started his company Textool to manufacture textile machines of his design. In 1965 another Textile family of VLB Naidu group set up [[Mopeds India Ltd]] after a technical collaboration with [[Motobécane]] of [[France]] to manufacture their legendary [[Motobécane]] [[Mobylette]] 50cc [[moped]] under the name [[Suvega]],but, only the cetral office was in [[Coimbatore]] while the plant was set up in [[Tirupathi]].
The manufacture of [[Wet grinder]]s, considered to be India’s only product and engineering invention, later spun-off into several variants. [[LMW]] and [[Pricol]] would commence operations later growing into a multi-crore group.
Coimbatore was also a major movie hub in 1930's and 1940's with two fully equipped studios, [[Central Studios]] and Pakshiraja Studios. Many laterday Tamil Movie stars started or spent their early career in these studios.
==Industries today==
[[Image:Windmill in Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|right|A wind farm near Coimbatore]]
[[Image:Bosch Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|right|Bosch,Coimbatore]]
Coimbatore is the highest revenue earning district in Tamil Nadu. Coimbatore is called the [[Manchester]] of South India due to its extensive [[textile industry]], fed by the surrounding [[cotton]] fields. It is also called as the pump city of INDIA. The City houses large number of small scale engineering companies. The motor and pump industry supplies two thirds of India’s requirements, while its wet-grinder industry has a near monopoly.A.K.engineering and trading is one of largest steel traders in HEAVY THICKNES in south india they had one of their branch in coimbatore. However, agriculture is still the major occupation in the district as in any other part of the Country. General trade attracts people from all over the state including the neighbouring Kerala. The neighbouring city of [[Tirupur]] is home to Asia’s largest garment manufacturing companies, exporting hosiery clothes worth more than [[Indian Rupee|Rs.]] 50,000 million. Coimbatore is also emerging as an [[Information technology|IT]] and [[BPO]] city.
Textool offered a prototype of [[Sten|Sten Guns]] to the Indian Government after independence. They developed the first in-house designed car in the 1960s, which never saw the light of day due to the [[license raj]]. They made several prototypes until the 1990s. They successfully manufactured India's first indigenously developed diesel engines in 1972 for cars and their own [[CNC]] [[lathe]]s in 1982. Today their spin-off company, Jayem Automotives, offers R & D services to [[Mahindra & Mahindra Limited|Mahindra]], [[Tata Motors]] and [[Hindustan Motors]].
[[Maruti Udyog]] and Tata Motors source up to 30% of their automotive components from Coimbatore. The city also houses numerous jewellers engaged in jewellery exports. L&T has opened a 400 acre plant on Eachanari bypass road.<ref> [http://www.larsentoubro.com/news/upload/CYBER-RT/Coimbatoreinaug.htm L&T in Eachanari bye pass], Larsen and toubro </ref> Wind Energy major Suzlon has planned to setup a foundry & machine shop in Coimbatore which could be the largest corporate facility of its kind so far in the southern city of Tamil Nadu.<ref>[www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/printstory;jsessionid=F9F469CF1B82CA7CC64FBEE82C83EB46?id=47270] Suzlon in Coimbatore</ref> Along with it Hansen Transmission, a Belgian Company which manufactures gearboxes for windmills is setting up a plant here with an investment of Rs 940 cr.<ref>[www.thehindubusinessline.com/2007/01/30/stories/2007013002111000.htm] Rs 940 cr investment in Coimbatore </ref>
Some of the major industries are [[Lakshmi Machine Work]]s(LMW), Premier Instruments & Control Limited([[PRICOL]]), ELGI Equipments, Revathi Equipment Limited(REL), Shanti gears, LGB, Roots Industries, Pump industries like Sharp Industries, CRI Pumps, Deccan Pumps, Texmo Industries, and Research and Development Organisations like Tamil Nadu Agricultural University[http://www.tnau.ac.in], CONTRIVE Group [www.contrivegroup.com], South India Textile Research Association[www.sitra.org.in], contribute a lot to the city. other industries LMW, PSG, Sakthi group contribute a lot, and the now closed South India Viscose are one of the major employers in the city.
Coimbatore also has a 160,000 square feet trade fair ground, built in 1999. It was named COINTEC due to its hosting of INTEC (Small Industries Exhibition)[http://www.intecexpo.com/]. The Trade Fair complex, one of the country's largest, was built in six months, and is owned by CODISSIA (Coimbatore District Small Industries Association)[http://www.intecexpo.com/]. It is also the country's largest pillar-free hall, according to the Limca Book of Records.<ref>[www.hindu.com/2007/08/20/stories/2007082053110600.htm] First pillar free trade complex </ref>
<!--- Keep list in alphabetical order --- We do not need to list ALL the companies in COIMBATORE --- KEEP LIST SHORT --->
The IT industry in Coimbatore is nascent, with CSS Corp,Cognizant, Perot Systems, Robert Bosch.
==Environmental issues==
===Air Pollution===
Coimbatore's air quality is worsening, thanks to the city's heavy industrialisation. In 1990’s the State Government and [[pollution]] control board took major steps to re-locate the steel foundries out of the city. The foundries were established in 50's and 60’s when there were no residential areas nearby, but expansion had to give way. The textile mills are all equipped with air treatment towers. The results of such an exercise is yet to be realized.
===Waste management===
The city has no proper underground drainage or sewage system. Garbage is collected by the Corporation (sometimes systems developed by the locals). The city's hospitals have no proper bio-waste management scheme. Drainage is pumped into the remaining tanks through streams. During the 80’s, corporation planned on closing the tanks due to encroachment by filling with waste. But as a result of outcries from associations, the tanks are being renovated by the city's environmental groups with their own fund-raising. From mid 90’s, corporation authorities are keeping public encroachments under check.
The Bio-Medical waste dumped in Podanur Vellalur road has sparked lot of angry demonstrations by the locals in Vellalur village, but the local government is yet to solve this issue.
[[Image:siruthuli.jpg|thumb|right|Siruthuli,Coimbatore.]]
===Tanks Revival===
[[Siruthuli]],<ref> [http://www.siruthuli.org/ Official website of Siruthuli], Siruthuli </ref> an environmental organisation initiated by the city's industrial houses, has embarked in de-[[silt]]ing of tanks and cleaning of the Noyyal river. Citizen Voice Club is one of the most active clubs in raising civic issues.
===Education===
{{main|Schools in Coimbatore}}
[[Image:psg.jpg|thumb|200px|[[PSG College of Technology]], Peelamedu]]
Educational institutions played a major role in the city's development. The year 1867 saw the first group of students appearing for the [[Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education|SSLC Examinations]]. The city today has more than a dozen engineering colleges, two medical colleges, an air-force administrative college, a forest college, more than 75 arts and science colleges and 3 universities, churning out about 35,000 graduates every year. The earliest educational institutions were CSI Higher Secondary School (1831), St. Michaels School (1860), Stanes High School (1862), St. Francis Anglo Indian Girls High School(1880), Sarvajana High School (1910) in [[Peelamedu]], Suburban Higher Secondary School (1917), Mani higher secondary school (1954), Carmel Garden Matriculation Higher Secondary School (1964) and Lisieux Matriculation Higher Secondary School (1972).
The first college was the Government Arts College (1875-76). The [[PSG College of Technology|first engineering college]] was started by PSG (P.S. Govindasamy Naidu) and Sons (1926) as a [[polytechnic]] and [[industrial training institute]], later offering graduate programmes including textile engineering. [[Gopalswamy Doraiswamy Naidu|G.D. Naidu]] started Hope College (named after Sir Arthur Hope, then Governor of Madras Presidency), offering technical education in civil, mechanical, electronics, electrical, and automobile engineering. Later it became the [[Government College of Technology, Coimbatore]] (aka... GCT). The [[Coimbatore Institute of Technology]](1956) was started by [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology|MIT]] and [[MIT Sloan School of Management|Sloan]] alumni P.R. Ramakrishnan.
[[Coimbatore Medical College]] (1966) started functioning on land granted by some industrial families. Later in 1987 PSG and Sons started PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. [[Tamil Nadu Agricultural University]] (1971) has successfully developed several high yielding varieties of rice and [[millets]]. The University has seven constituent colleges, thirty two research stations and thirteen Krishi Vigyan Kendras spread over Tamil nadu. The University is responsible for teaching, research and extension activities related to Agriculture in the State. The University is situated in the Western Part of the city on Maruthamalai Road. Government Law College (1978) started functioning in order to fulfil the long felt need for legal education in the district.[[Tamilnadu College of Engineering]] was established in 1984. For the records, Tamilnadu College of Engineering has the distinction of being the First Self-Financing Engineering College in Tamil Nadu. VLB J College of Engineering & Technology and Kumaraguru College of Technology are also good instituitions for Engineering education. Karunya Institute of Technology ( [[Karunya University]] ) started in the year 1986 was the first autonomous self financing college it is now a University. Sri Krishna College Of Engineering&Technology started in the year 1998 is also worth mentioning.
==Media and communication==
The city has two major English dailies, [[The Hindu]] [http://www.hinduonnet.com] and [[The New Indian Express]] [http://www.newindpress.com]. Tamil language dailies include [[Dina Malar]][http://www.dinamalar.com], [[Dina Thanthi]][http://www.dailythanthi.com], [[Dina Mani]][http://www.dinamani.com] and [[Dinakaran]][http://www.dinakaran.com] with two other dailies [[Tamil Murasu]][http://www.dinakaran.co.in/epapertamilmurasu] and [http://Malai Malar][www.maalaimalar.com] published in the evening. A short wave radio station is operated by [[All India Radio]], with most programmes in Tamil, English and Hindi. Five [[FM radio]] stations operate from Coimbatore, [[Rainbow FM]] by All India Radio and [[Suryan FM]][http://www.suntv.in/suntvlimited/fm/default.htm] by the Sun Network.<ref>, [http://www.asiawaves.net/india/tamil-nadu-radio.htm#coimbatore-radio], Radio Stations in Coimbatore, </ref> [[Radio Mirchi]], [[Radio City]], and [[Hello FM]] started their operations recently.<ref>, [http://www.thehindujobs.com/thehindu/holnus/009200711010322.htm], Radio mirchi, </ref>.<ref>, [http://www.exchange4media.com/e4m/radio/radionews.asp?section_id=7&news_id=22979&tag=17706], Hello Fm, </ref>.<ref>, [http://www.indiaprwire.com/pressrelease/advertising/200701221649.htm], [[Radio city]] </ref>. All these private radio stations air exclusively [[Tamil language|Tamil]] based programmes, including film music. The range of these stations cover [[Coimbatore]], [[Erode]] and [[Ooty]] districts of [[Tamil Nadu]]; [[Palakkad]] and [[Wayanad]] districts of Kerala.
Television relay started in 1985 from Delhi [[Doordarshan]]. In 1986, after inception of a repeater tower at [[Kodaikanal]], telecast from Madras Doordarshan commenced. The people of Coimbatore witnessed the [[1980 Olympics]] and [[1983 Cricket World Cup]] on a giant screen in VOC Park when the city-based UMS developed a dish antenna for satellite signal reception. Television reception is through DTH or by Cable, while "Doordarshan" reception is still available using an external antenna. In 2005, Doordarshan opened its studio in Coimbatore.<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/16/stories/2005081611440200.htm Coimbatore gets modern Doordarshan Studio Centre], The Hindu, August 16, 2005</ref>
Coimbatore has good communication infrastructure, with all major service providers involved.
It is the headquarters for the Tamil Nadu circle of cellular service providers, with Aircel having its headquarters in Coimbatore. Services available are DOT landline, [[CDMA]] and [[GSM]]. [[Fiber optic]] cables were laid in 2001, improving internet access which had begun with the establishment of a dial-up connection in 1996.karunya institute of tech
== Temples ==
The city has three major temples, [[Marudamalai]],[[Perur]] and [[Karamadai]].
===Marudamalai===
The word "Marudhachalapathy" or "Maruthamalai Andavar" means Master of Hills, abounding in Marudha trees. The name has also a legendary origin. A [[Siddha]], overcome by excessive thirst and tiredness, sought shelter under the shade of a Marudha tree and prayed to the mercy of the Lord Muruga for a shower of water, which sprang at once as though by a miracle from beneath the tree. As water gushed out from the roots of the marudha tree, the Siddha leaped in joy, glorifying Muruga as the Lord of "Marudha" and "Jalam" (water) with the passage of time, "Marudhajalapathi" became "Marudhachalapathy".
According to epic, a saint prayed to God sitting under a marudha tree for helping him quench his thirst and tiredness. Soon he noticed water springing from beneath the tree. Overwhelmed, he pronounced 'Lord Muruga' as the Lord of Marudhajalapathi. In due course it became 'Marudamalai'. History has it that Pambatti Siddhar, was originally a snake charmer and was initiated into the world of philosophy by a Siddhar by name Sattai munivar. Pambatti Siddhar is said to have performed several miracles, and written extensively on herbal medicine. His songs are addressed to snakes.
Location of the temple: Sri Subramanyasami temple is located at Marudamalai, 13 km North - West of Coimbatore, Industrial city of [[Tamil Nadu]], India.
===Perur===
The Garba graha of this temple was built by [[Karikala Chola]] in the early Christian era. It is a [[Shiva]] shrine with a Swayambumoorthy.
The Sthalapuranam states that when the calf of Kamadhenu was playing in the forest of arasu trees its legs got plunged into a hard object from which blood gushed out. It was then discovered that the object was nothing but a sacred Siva Lingam. This led a temple to be built here. It was built over the Moolasthanam and worshipped by the Saivaites. The place became a Vaipu Sthalam in Saivalore. Since it was sung by Saint Appar and by Saint Sundarar in their Devaram. The temple is located in Perur, 6 km from Coimbatore on the Siruvani main road.
===Karamadai===
Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, this is the second oldest temple in Coimbatore. It was built by the Vijayranagara Kings.The Temple attracts a large concourse of people from throughout the land.The famous Ranganathar temple in karamadai is about 24km from coimbatore its also an easy destination spot located at the reachable distance for the people of Coimbatore, Tirupur , Ooty, Metupalayam etc.
'Thottiyars' clan of people lived at Karamadai. A cow of one of the thottiars failed to yield milk all of a sudden. He found out that the cow was shedding milk at a bush. Enraged, he started to cut it and heard an exploding sound and saw blood gushing from inside. On hearing this, the other people in the village came there and found a 'Suyambu Lingam' inside the bush. The same night God appeared in the dream of him and asked him to adorn the 'Lingam' with 'Chandana Kaapu'.
== Health Care ==
The city has numerous hospitals. Apart from the Government hospital, several multi-facility hospitals function in the city. The district's health department is amongst the best in terms of implementing government-initiated health schemes. Also, several rare surgical procedures have taken place here. The [[Polio eradication|polio eradication programme]] is heavily assisted by the city's [[Rotary Club]]s, who also regularly donate ambulances for smaller hospitals. The city also has numerous homeopathic clinics run by [[NGO]]s.
'''Coimbatore: An emerging healthcare destination'''
Fast pace of industrialisation, spiraling population and the increase in the health awareness have led to the growth of the healthcare industry in Coimbatore. The city stands second to Chennai in the Tamilnadu for highly affordable and quality healthcare deliveries of international standards.
Coimbatore is also the preferred healthcare destination to the floating population from nearby towns and districts and also nearby districts of Kerala. The growth of the hospitals in the city can be attributed to the vision of the industrialists here to bridge the gap between growing health needs and the existing services. Many of the private hospitals in the city are promoted by industrialists as an extension of their business portfolio and their service to the society.
The first healthcare centre started in 1909, later became the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) during 1960s. Being the head quarter of the district government hospital, CMCH with a capacity of 1150 beds treats more than 20 lakh patients every year. The history of large private players coming to the healthcare scenario started with the commencing of the G Kuppusamy Naidu Memorial Hospital (GKNMH). It was started 50 years ago by the Kuppusamy Naidu Memorial Trust primarily as a speciality hospital for gynaecology and paediatrics. Over years, it developed into a multi speciality hospital with 300 beds.
Notably, majority of the big private players in the city are registered as trust hospitals. The ushering in of the corporate multi speciality hospital a decade ago has intensified the competition among the private hospitals. This intense competition has necessitated advanced medical technology and better patient care. Few of the super speciality hospitals in the city have also slowly moved into specialities like cardiac care, cancer treatment and eye care. Amidst the super speciality and multi speciality hospitals also function wide range of speciality hospitals. To maintain and extend their patient base, few of the these hospitals have also added on other disciples that can be accommodated with the existing specialities. Patients who used to travel to other metros now have healthcare deliveries at their doorstep.
Apart from providing healthcare services of international standards, hospitals in Coimbatore are also trendsetters. When hospitals in Mumbai and Bangalore are in the infant stages of establishing hospital networking, hospitals in Coimbatore have already taken a lead. KG Hospitals has tied-up with more than ten clinics in the nearby towns to provide expert medical consultancy. These clinics would refer to the partner hospital for tertiary care of its patients. A year back, KG Hospital also established a satellite diagnostic at Tirupur. According to Dr G Bakthavatsalam, chairman, K G Hospital, the satellite diagnostic centre is an extension of the hospital and its services. The satellite centre equipped with the state-of-the-art medical devices is helpful to the medical fraternity and the people of Tirupur to undertake preliminary investigations at ease. Similarly KMCH[http://www.kmchonline.com] has also established a diagnostic centre, which it calls as a city centre to provide primary and secondary care. Hospitals here are also engaged in emergency networks, clinical trials and other new concepts that are explored by the hospitals elsewhere in the country to increase the patient base and satisfaction.
Private hospitals in the city have also joined with NGOs in community service by establishing trauma care centers and emergency networks. The trauma care project implemented by the private hospitals in association with Rotary along the National Highway is one such. A group of private hospitals, government hospital and the communication department have also joined hands to set up an emergency medical service system in the city.
With a large array of multi speciality and speciality hospitals existing and rendering yeomen service, can the city absorb new comers? The demand and the supply is not in perfect sync and the gap has to be bridged by few more hospitals, say experts.
Coimbatore is all set to emerge as one of the important hub for medical tourism. The Ganga Medical Center and Hospitals have been leaders in trauma, orthopedic and plastic surgery care. They have recently relocated to the Mettupalayam Road. The hospital regularly hosts international conferences ion Orthopedics, Plastic Surgery and Anaesthesia. Kovai Medical Center & Hospital(KMCH)[http://www.kmchonline.com/emergency.html], G Kuppusamy Naidu Memorial Hospital(GKNM), KG Hospital<ref name="http://www.kghospital.com">[http://www.kghospital.com KG Hospital - K. Govindaswamy Naidu Medical Trust<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>, PSG Hospitals & Ramakrishna Hospital<ref name="http://www.sriramakrishnahospital.com">[http://www.sriramakrishnahospital.com Welcome to Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> are major super speciality hospitals. There are other hospitals with specialisation areas. Ganga Hospital(Orthopaedics, Neuro-Surgery <ref name="http://www.gangahospital.com">[http://www.gangahospital.com Ganga Hospital<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>), GEM Hospital (Laparoscopic procedures)<ref name="http://www.gemhospitalindia.com">[http://www.gemhospitalindia.com Home<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>.Coimbatore Christian medical center for the poor and needy CCH<ref name="http://www.cchtrust.org">[http://www.cchtrust.org Home<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
== List of Hospitals ==
* Ganga Hospital [www.gangahospital.com]
* KTVR Group Hospital [http://www.ktvr.com].
* Sankara Eye Centre Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Medical Trust.
* Kovai Medical Center and Hospital (KMCH).
* The Eye Foundation.
* MedIndia Hospitals (MIH).
* Siloam Thomas Eye Hospital.
* G.Kuppuswamy Naidu Memorial Hospital.
* Lotus Eye Care Hospital.
* Sheela Hospital.
* Ellen Hospital.
* Rao Hospital.
* Coimbatore Diabetes Foundation.
* Vedanayagam Hospital Pvt Ltd.
* Naveen Hospital.
* Coimbatore Kidney Centre.
* Sri Ramakrishna Hospital.
* Richmond Hospital.
* Arvind Eye Hospital.
* Kongunad Hospital (P) Ltd.
* Ponniah Hospital.
* PSG Hospitals.
* Lalithaa Hospital.
* Vikram ENT Hospital & Research Institute.
* Arya Vaidya Chikitsalayam & Research Institute (Unit of AVP (Cbe) Limited).
* Coimbatore Kidney Stone Centre.
* Diabetes Care & Research Centre.
* Kalpana Hospital.
* Kovai Diabetes Speciality Centre.
* CSR Nursing Home.
* The Balakishnan Hospital.
* Aparna Hospital.
* Surya Hospital.
* Balaji Nursing Home.
* Kanthaswamy Siddha Hospital.
* Saravana Surgery.
* Karunya Rural Community Hospital.
* [[Gem Hospital India (P) Ltd.]][http://www.gemhospitalindia.com/]
==Sports and recreation==
[[Image:Racing action in Coimbatore.jpg|thumb|360px|right|A typical raceday scene at [[Kari Motor Speedway]]]]
[[Motor sports]] plays a large part in the city, with Coimbatore often referred to as the "Motor sports Capital of India" and the "Backyard of Indian Motorsports".<ref>
{{cite web | title = City of speed | publisher = The Hindu | date = 2006-04-24 | url = http://www.hindu.com/mp/2006/04/24/stories/2006042401140400.htm | accessdate = 2007-01-03}}</ref> Some wealthy industrialists, such as [[S.Karivardhan]], who had a penchant for tinkering with machines and cars, plunged into [[motor racing]], later making Coimbatore the country's motor racing hub. The city has a Formula 3 Category circuit, as well as three Go-Kart circuits. National Champion races for [[Formula racing]] (Cars), [[Motorcycle sport|Motorcycle racing]], [[Go-Kart]] racing are held in [[Kari Motor Speedway]].<ref>,[http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2003/12/01/stories/2003120102260100.htm], </ref> .[[Super Speeds]] designs and constructs almost all Formula cars. [[Rallying]] is another major event with all teams based in Coimbatore. Rallies are conducted in closed roads around Coimbatore districts. [[Narain Karthikeyan]] is the city's most famous driver, being the first Indian to enter [[Formula 1]] in 2005 with Team [[Jordan Grand Prix|Jordan]]. Also he is the First & only Indian to win A1GP World Championship Race. Other famous motorsport personalities from Coimbatore are former [[Formula 3]] driver [[J.Anand]] and seven time national rallying champions N. Leela Krishnan and [[V. R. Naren Kumar]]{{Fact|date=February 2008}}.
The city is also known for its antique bikes, cars and jeeps. Many prominent industrialists own antique automobiles.
Nehru stadium, built originally for [[football (soccer)|football]], can also host athletic meets. Now Synthetic track is constructed and Korean grass in the center.<ref> [www.hindu.com/mp/2006/04/24/stories/2006042401150400.htm] Syntethic track works over </ref>Apart from the stadium, the city also has several sports clubs. The prominent tennis player [[Nirupama Vaidyanathan]] hails from Coimbatore.<ref>[www.hinduonnet.com/2001/01/13/stories/0713102h.htm], Nirupama vaidyanathan </ref>. The [[Coimbatore Golf Club]]<ref>, [http://www.golftoday.co.uk/clubhouse/coursedir/world/india/southernindia/coimbatore.html Location of golf club], Coimbatore Golf Club,</ref> is home to a major 18-hole golf course. The [[Coimbatore Cosmopolitan Club]], which is more than 100 years old,<ref>[www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2006/09/25/stories/2006092500760100.htm] 100 year old club of Coimbatore </ref> was founded for Indian members only, in response to the English Coimbatore Club, which did not admit Indians until the 1950s. The Coimbatore Flying Club is located in the Coimbatore airport premises.<ref>[dgca.nic.in/flyclub/flyclub.pdf] Flying club of Coimbatore </ref>
Though there are a lot of entertainment centres mushrooming in the city, visiting the [[Indian cinema|cinema]] still remains the city's most popular recreational activity.<ref name="http://kovaidreams.googlepages.com/entertainment#cinema">[http://kovaidreams.googlepages.com/entertainment#cinema kovaidreams - KovaiDreamsOne stop guide on Coimbatore.Home | History | Bus | Train | Air<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
== References ==
{{reflist}}
*[http://www.kovai.mobi Kovai @ Anywhere-Anytime!]
== External links ==
<!---PLEASE DISCUSS ADDING EXTERNAL LINKS ON THE TALK PAGE--->
* [http://www.kovai.mobi Catch Kovai on your Mobile]
* [http://www.coimbatore.tn.nic.in/ Coimbatore District Administration]
* [http://www.coimbatore-corporation.com/ Municipal Corporation]
* [http://thecoimbatoredigest.in/ Coimbatore Digest]
* {{dmoz|Regional/Asia/India/Tamil_Nadu/Localities/Coimbatore/}}.
{{Template group
|list =
{{Million-plus cities in India}}
{{Municipal corporations of Tamil Nadu}}
{{Tamil Nadu}}
}}
[[Category:Coimbatore| ]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Tamil Nadu]]
[[Category:South India]]
[[de:Coimbatore]]
[[fr:Coimbatore]]
[[hi:कोयंबतूर]]
[[bpy:কোইমবাতোরে]]
[[id:Coimbatore]]
[[it:Coimbatore]]
[[ml:കോയമ്പത്തൂര്]]
[[nl:Coimbatore]]
[[new:कोइम्बाटोर]]
[[ja:コーヤンブットゥール]]
[[pl:Coimbatore]]
[[pt:Coimbatore]]
[[ro:Coimbatore]]
[[ru:Коямпуттур]]
[[simple:Coimbatore]]
[[fi:Coimbatore]]
[[sv:Coimbatore]]
[[ta:கோயம்புத்தூர்]]
[[vi:Coimbatore]]
[[zh:哥印拜陀]]