Uthandi residents raise concerns over ₹91-crore flood canal project, flag environmental and groundwater risks
Residents of Uthandi are raising concerns about a ₹91-crore flood canal project proposed by the Water Resources Department. They warn that the project could cause environmental damage and impact groundwater resources, particularly affecting the Pallikaranai marsh. The project has faced criticism for potentially disrupting local ecosystems and fishing communities, leading to calls for reconsideration and public consultation.
- ▪The proposed project aims to construct a 1.05-kilometre canal to address flooding in south Chennai.
- ▪Residents argue that the project could lead to significant environmental risks, including erosion and pollution of local water sources.
- ▪The project has been halted by the National Green Tribunal due to concerns over lack of clearance and public consultation.
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Residents of VGP Layout in Uthandi have raised concerns over the proposed Straight-Cut Flood Escape Channel project by the Water Resources Department (WRD), warning that it could cause significant environmental damage and impact critical groundwater resources. The ₹91-crore project is intended to tackle recurring flooding in south Chennai, especially in low-lying areas around the Pallikaranai marsh. It involves constructing a 1.05-kilometre canal linking the Buckingham Canal to the Bay of Bengal at Uthandi, with a planned discharge capacity of up to 550 cusecs. Untreated sewage flows into Pallikaranai marshlandIn a citizens’ report released on Tuesday (April 28, 2026), residents question why more straightforward alternatives were not pursued.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu.
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