Chennai: Nearly six months after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) took suo motu cognisance of a Times of India report published in November 2025 highlighting toxic waste and sewage clogging the Kodungaiyur North and South canals, no concrete action has been taken on the ground. Untreated sewage continues to flow through stormwater drains into the waterways, exacerbating the health hazards for local residents.
Background of the Issue
The TOI report had drawn attention to how untreated sewage flows, garbage accumulation, and toxic waste had turned stretches of the canal into a health hazard, with foul odour affecting daily life. Following the report, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) inspected the area and discovered that domestic sewage from nearby homes was being illegally discharged into stormwater drains connected to the canal network.
Directives Issued
In response, the board issued directions to officials of the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and Chennai Metrowater to stop sewage discharge and ensure complete collection of wastewater through the underground sewerage system before transporting it to sewage treatment plants. However, residents report that little has changed on the ground.
Residents' Complaints
Several stretches of the canal remain polluted by sewage flow, while heaps of floating plastic waste and the accompanying stench affect daily life. "We cannot even keep our doors or windows open in the evening due to the stench. Mosquito infestation has surged, and during rains the dirty water overflows onto roads. Officials visit occasionally, but there is no permanent solution," said D Sampath, a resident of Muthamizh Nagar in Kodungaiyur.
Locals expressed concerns over health risks, particularly among children and the elderly. "Despite the NGT order, illegal sewage is discharged from nearby industrial units," said P Murugan, another resident. The Tondiarpet zonal officer was unavailable for comment.
