The laying of new water pipelines began at Ganapathypudur on Wednesday. Public protest alleging laying of pipe through private land had stalled the work.

While the laying of pipes had been completed in other areas, the 1-km stretch at Ganapathypudur is expected to be completed soon.

Locals said that the authorities had not given prior information about the starting of the work. Travel had become a serious issue after digging of the road began, said resident Mariyappan. With diversion boards not being put up at vantage points, drivers have had harrowing times, he added.

Once the work is completed, residents of Ganapathypudur would be assured of regular water supply, a longstanding demand of the people there.