The Madras High Court has asked bird experts from the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History to study the impact of lake restoration on birds in Coimbatore. The two lakes, Ukkadam and Valankulam, are being revitalised by the municipal corporation. A special Division Bench of Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy said the lake projects seem more human-focused than nature-friendly. They want experts to find out "whether the developmental activities being carried out now are in any manner detrimental to the nesting or other activities of the birds." The court gave two months for the experts to finish the study and submit a report by February 20, 2026. This report should include recommendations to protect both migratory and local birds while carrying out lake development. The orders came after the Coimbatore Corporation filed a detailed affidavit. It said solar panels cover only 0.2 acres—just 0.05% of Ukkadam lake—and do not block sunlight for aquatic life. The corporation added they are not using diesel or mechanised boats in the lakes, only rowing or pedal boats for rescue. Laser light shows have also been stopped at the lakes. The judges noted the submission but ordered that noisy sound and light shows, involving speakers, crackers, or loud noises, must not be held at these lakes or any other lakes managed by the corporation or local authorities. Although the corporation claimed the bird nesting island was untouched by human actions, the court insisted on an expert study. It directed the Salim Ali Centre to send two experts and ordered the State government, forest department, and Coimbatore Municipal Corporation to help the team fully.