Chennai: Arapor Iyakkam, an anti-corruption NGO, has petitioned the state government to revoke approvals granted to a property developer for a residential project in Perumbakkam, alleging that the site lies within the protected Pallikaranai marshland.
Complaint Details
In a complaint submitted to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, the organization stated that the company is attempting to resume construction in violation of the Wetland Conservation Rules 2017 and a Supreme Court stay order prohibiting any construction within identified wetland areas.
The project, located on land bearing survey numbers 453, 495/2C, 496, 497, and 498 in Perumbakkam village, Chengalpet district, falls within the boundaries of the Pallikaranai marshland.
Significance of Pallikaranai Marshland
Pallikaranai is one of the 94 wetlands recognized under the National Wetland Conservation and Management Programme. It is a freshwater marsh and partly saline wetland that serves as an aquatic buffer for Chennai and Chengalpet.
Allegations Against Authorities
The NGO further demanded an immediate halt to construction and action against officials who granted the permissions. It accused the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) of failing to consider the site's status as part of a protected wetland while approving the project. The complaint also noted that the project applicant did not disclose the land's location within or near the Ramsar site during the environmental clearance process.
Requested Actions
The complaint requests the state government to review the permissions granted, stop all construction activities, and ensure the marshland's protection in line with wetland conservation regulations.
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