National Green Tribunal Halts Construction Near Pallikaranai Marsh
The Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently ordered a suspension of all construction activities within one kilometre of the Pallikaranai Marshland. This directive aims to protect the ecologically sensitive wetland until a detailed scientific study defines its precise zone of influence. The order responds to reports of landfilling and construction inside the Perumbakkam wetland, which is hydrologically connected to the larger Pallikaranai Marsh system.
Background and Context
Pallikaranai Marsh, declared a Ramsar Site in 2022, is one of the last remaining natural wetlands in Chennai. It plays important role in flood control and maintaining local biodiversity. Recent unregulated construction near the marsh poses risks to its ecological balance and the safety of surrounding communities.
Legal Intervention by National Green Tribunal
The NGT bench, led by Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Prashant Gargava, acted suo motu after media reports brought into light illegal activities near the marsh. The tribunal noted that Survey No. 286 in Perumbakkam village lies just 246 metres from the marsh boundary. The bench stressed that any unauthorised work here could disrupt water inflows and increase flood risks.
Developer’s Claims and Tribunal’s Observations
The developer, M/s Grande City Development Company LLP, claimed the land falls under a “Primary Residential Use Zone” as per the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) master plan. They argued that only temporary levelling was done to conduct a land survey, not permanent construction. However, the tribunal clarified that land-use zoning cannot supersede environmental concerns, especially in ecologically sensitive zones.
Role of Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority
The Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority (TNSWA) has provisionally identified a one-kilometre buffer zone around the marsh using topographical and hydrological models. This zone marks the marsh’s ecological influence area. The Integrated Management Plan (IMP), which will formalise this zone, is under revision and expected to provide clear guidelines for future activities.
Directions for Coordination and Compliance
The NGT has directed TNSWA, the Water Resources Department, and CMDA to expedite the completion of the IMP. Until the plan is finalised and the buffer zone officially notified, no new permissions or approvals for projects affecting the marsh or its hydrological systems shall be granted. This move aims to preserve the marsh’s ecological functions and protect local communities from flood hazards.
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