Mathur Aqueduct (Mathur Hanging Trough) in Kanyakumari

Mathur Aqueduct or Mathur Hanging Trough is one of the longest and tallest trough bridges in Asia. It is one km in length and 155 feet high, anchored by 28 huge pillars. This iconic structure was constructed in 1966 Parali river in Mathur village. It was due to the efforts of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu K. Kamaraj, that this bridge was constructed to cater water scarcity and agriculture purposes. However, now it is more popular for tourists as a sight seeing place. The experience of being so close to clouds, yet near to the lush greenery landscapes will surely leave us enchanted. The motto of this bridge is to carry water for irrigation from an elevated level of one hill to another. The irrigation water feeds nearby villages of which are considered drought prone. The construction was needed because of the undulating land terrain of the area, which is also adjacent to the hills of the Western Ghats. The structure of the trough is about 7 feet in height, with a width of 7.5 feet. The trough is provided with concrete slabs on the top that allows people to walk along with the water flow through the trough. Some of the pillars are set over the rocks of the river, whereas some other pillars are set over the hills on either side. It can be covered by road too, if walking is difficult. There is a huge flight of stairs that allows one to climb from the level of the river to the trough with less strain. Water for irrigation flows through the trough most of the times in a year. With the amazing views and the scintillating breeze, it brings joy and calmness. A children's park and enough platforms to get into the water, it enables people to spend quality time.