Eviction of Encroachments in Chennai’s Waterbodies to Begin Soon

Disaster Management Disaster Management in India

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-01-24 09:10:42 |

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The eviction of encroachments on waterbodies and poromboke lands in Chennai and its suburban areas is set to resume shortly, with the State Steering Committee, headed by the Chief Secretary, scheduled to meet on Wednesday, December 3, 2024. The committee aims to monitor and review the overall progress of eviction efforts during the ongoing Northeast monsoon season.

The initiative to clear encroachments on critical waterbodies and objectionable lands was initially delayed due to administrative reasons, preventing the meeting from being held before the onset of the monsoon in October this year. However, with renewed focus, the upcoming meeting will address pending eviction efforts and ensure compliance with court orders mandating the removal of illegal structures that obstruct water flow and contribute to flooding in Chennai and surrounding areas.

The State government formed the State Steering Committee to oversee and coordinate efforts to prevent further encroachments and to restore the city’s natural drainage systems. Officials believe that the removal of encroachments is crucial in mitigating the severe flooding that has affected several parts of Chennai and its suburbs in recent years.

The committee is expected to assess the progress made so far, identify bottlenecks in the eviction process, and set timelines for clearing encroachments from key waterbodies. Local authorities will also focus on sensitizing the public about the importance of maintaining waterbodies and discouraging future encroachments.

Environmental activists and civic groups have welcomed the renewed push, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to preserve waterbodies and prevent urban flooding. The outcomes of the meeting will likely shape further action plans aimed at long-term water management and urban planning strategies in the region.

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