Chennai Fisherfolk Stage Protest Against Kovalam Reservoir Project
Fisherfolk from more than 18 villages in Chennai's Chengalpet district staged a significant protest on Monday, urging the government to abandon the planned sixth reservoir project for the city. The demonstration highlighted grave concerns over the potential destruction of traditional fishing grounds and ecological damage.
Project Details and Official Approval
The 326-crore reservoir project, officially granted coastal zone regulation clearance in December 2025, is scheduled for completion within two years at the Kovalam sub-basin. Its primary objective is to store rainwater and inflow from over 40 nearby lakes, achieving an annual storage capacity of 2.25 TMC (thousand million cubic feet). This stored water is intended to supply 170 MLD (million liters per day) to core city areas and surrounding suburbs, addressing Chennai's growing water demands.
Ecological and Livelihood Threats
One of the foremost concerns raised by the protesting fisherfolk is the imminent loss of crucial breeding grounds. Arumugam, representing the Chengalpet District United Fisherfolk Panchayat Council, explained the ecological impact. "The new reservoir project will obstruct the natural flow of water from Mugathuvaram, a vital freshwater source. This water currently enters the proposed reservoir area, which spans more than 5,000 acres and contains several salt pans. The interaction of freshwater with these salt pans creates brackish water conditions, forming an ideal breeding habitat for numerous marine species. However, the reservoir will sever this freshwater source, disrupting the entire ecosystem and devastating fish populations," he stated.
Impact on Local Communities and Safety Concerns
The protest underscores the severe socio-economic repercussions of the project. More than 500 fisher families are projected to be directly affected, facing potential loss of livelihood due to the degradation of fishing grounds. Additionally, Soundara Pandian, a local fisherman, voiced safety apprehensions. "Beyond the ecological damage, this reservoir poses significant flood risks during the monsoon seasons. Altering natural water flow patterns could lead to increased flooding in adjacent areas, endangering both property and lives," he warned.
Broader Implications and Community Demands
The fisherfolk's protest brings to light the ongoing conflict between urban development initiatives and the preservation of traditional livelihoods and natural ecosystems. The community's demands center on the government reconsidering the project's location or implementing alternative solutions that mitigate environmental harm. This situation highlights the need for balanced development that incorporates the voices and welfare of local populations dependent on natural resources.
