The Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) has selected a Delhi-based private company to manage the operation and maintenance of seven lakefront projects developed under the Smart Cities Mission for around ten years. These lakefronts, situated at Ukkadam Periyakulam, Valankulam, Kurichi Lake, Selva Chinthamani, Muthannankulam, Selvampathy Kumarasamy, and Krishnampathy, underwent significant rejuvenation efforts by the CCMC, involving substantial investments for their enhancement. Each lakefront was adorned with a 2.5 to 5-metre-wide footpath along its shores. Despite these considerable investments, the CCMC encountered difficulties in effectively maintaining these public spaces due to financial limitations and a workforce shortage, leading to various complaints and concerns about their upkeep. To address these challenges and ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of these lakes, the CCMC has awarded the Operation and Maintenance contract to Lion Service Ltd, a firm based in New Delhi, for ten years. Beginning their contractual duties from Thursday, Lion Service Ltd is tasked with park maintenance, solid waste management, civil works, electrical, gardening, mechanical maintenance, and security services. Reports indicate that Lion Service Limited has previously handled similar projects for numerous municipal corporations nationwide, employing advanced technology for efficient operations. A senior official involved in the smart city initiative emphasised, The company is known for its use of cutting-edge technology in Operation and Maintenance projects across the country. In addition to their operational responsibilities, the private company will also work on improving the public spaces under their care. Initially, the CCMC will provide financial assistance. However, after a few years, the project will transition to a self-sustaining revenue model. Under this model, the contractor will generate revenue through the facilities at these public spaces, which will then be used for Operation and Maintenance activities.