With around 2.45 lakh voters, Erode (West) constituency has the largest voter base in the district. The region is powered by agriculture, textile processing and an extensive network of power weaving units, making it industrially important and agriculturally dependent. This mix of rapid urban expansion and rural settlement has created a complex set of civic and development challenges.
One-third of the constituency falls within Erode Corporation limits, including Surampatti, Thindal, Muthampalayam, Periyasemur, Villarasampatti and Kasipalayam. Meanwhile, areas like Kadirampatti, Suriyampalayam, Gangapuram, Kavundachipalayam, Chithode and Nasiyanur lie on the outskirts of the city where urbanization is expanding but infrastructure development remains patchy and slow. This contrast results in differences in access to basic amenities across constituencies.
Problems with water supply
Irregular supply of drinking water remains one of the most pressing problems, especially in rural and marginal areas. Water scarcity also continues to affect agriculture, which is the primary livelihood for many residents. Farmers often highlight the unpredictability of water availability, which directly affects crop productivity and income stability, and point to the need for better water management and distribution systems.
Urban civic themes are equally prominent. Rapid and often unplanned urbanization has put considerable pressure on infrastructure, leading to traffic congestion, particularly along Perundurai Road, a key arterial stretch lined with commercial establishments, hospitals and educational institutions. With increasing vehicular traffic and expanding residential layouts, the demand for a flyover or elevated corridor has intensified. The 5.4 km elevated corridor from Kalingarayan Illam to Thindal on Perundurai Road, announced in 2019 during the AIADMK regime, remains unimplemented. While the AIADMK blames the DMK government for the delay, it has cited failed soil tests and land acquisition problems due to heavy commercial activity along the route.
Civic infra
Basic infrastructure is struggling to keep up with growth. Residents point to the delay in the introduction of Underground Sewerage System (UGSS) in several corporation areas, forcing continued reliance on inadequate drainage systems. Poorly maintained stormwater drains and the absence of a comprehensive underground sewage network have led to water stagnation and sanitation problems, especially during the monsoon.
Environmental issues are also important. The discharge of untreated wastewater from textile processing units into water bodies, canals and streams has caused pollution that affects both agriculture and public health. Despite repeated complaints, residents say a long-term solution remains in sight.
The powerloom sector, the backbone of the local economy, faces significant challenges. More than 25,000 units in areas like Chithode and Veerappanchatiram are facing rising yarn prices, leading to job losses and financial distress among workers. The long-awaited demand for a dedicated textile park has yet to be implemented. Similarly, farmers continue to push for an integrated turmeric complex. The constituency is also witnessing significant labor movement, adding to pressure on housing and transport infrastructure.
Public transport connectivity remains insufficient, especially for workers who rely on daily commutes. Residents highlight limited bus frequency, poor last-mile connectivity and lack of access to interior and peripheral areas as major concerns.
Another challenge is solid waste management, especially in the expanding urban fringes, where improper segregation and dumping are often reported. The growing menace of stray dogs has also raised security concerns. Access to quality public health care and education in peripheral areas is limited, forcing many residents to depend on facilities in the city center.
Amidst these persistent problems, voters are calling for more targeted and sustainable development. There is a strong demand for better infrastructure, including better road networks, planned urban expansion and timely implementation of long pending projects. Ensuring a reliable supply of drinking water remains a top priority, especially in rural areas. At the same time, residents are looking for better public transport, better connectivity and higher frequency of services.
Political outline
Politically, the constituency has seen shifts since delimitation. AIADMK’s KV Ramalingam represented the seat in 2011 and 2016, while DMK’s S. Muthusamy won in 2021. He currently serves as Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise and maintains a strong presence in the constituency. While residents acknowledge that welfare programs have reached many areas, they emphasize that long-standing civic issues require sustained attention and timely implementation.
As the constituency continues to expand, addressing these interconnected challenges will remain central to governance and voter expectations.
Published – 23 March 2026 18:29 IST
