National Green Tribunal directs strict monitoring of debris in Cooum during Chennai Port–Maduravoyal corridor works

NGT mandates strict monitoring of debris and construction activities along Cooum river during Chennai's elevated corridor project to protect the environment.

The southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed authorities to ensure no excess dumping of debris or construction material takes place along the Cooum river during the execution of the Chennai Port–Maduravoyal elevated corridor project, while ordering strict monitoring of the river stretch. 

Disposing of a suo motu case initiated based on news reports alleging encroachments along the river, the bench comprising Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Prashant Gargava noted the activities cited were largely linked to ongoing infrastructure work by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). 

The bench observed that sand dumping, debris accumulation and levelling of portions of the riverbed near Koyambedu were associated with the formation of an approach road for the elevated corridor project, which had received approvals from the Tamil Nadu government. It recorded that the NHAI had undertaken to remove the debris and restore the river to its original condition after completion of the project. 

At the same time, the bench stressed the ecological sensitivity of the Cooum and issued a set of directions to prevent further damage. It said the Water Resources Department (WRD) and NHAI must ensure no dumping takes place beyond what is strictly necessary for project execution. Temporary structures such as working platforms and piling rigs must be removed immediately after use. 

The bench also directed the WRD to maintain strict vigil over the river and act against any unauthorised encroachments or dumping. Authorities were asked to ensure that the natural flow of the river is not obstructed at any stage, particularly during the monsoon, and that adequate flood mitigation measures are in place. 

On the issue of encroachments, the bench noted that eviction drives have been held up due to pending court cases, but said the process should be carried out expeditiously once legal clearances are obtained.