Chennai, Tamil Nadu — Despite a stern directive issued by the Madras High Court, unauthorized constructions continue to mushroom along the ecologically sensitive Adyar River backwaters, highlighting gaps in enforcement and governance. The court had granted the Tamil Nadu government a three-month window to remove illegal encroachments; however, recent observations show unabated construction activity, landfills, and unauthorized housing.
Environmentalists and urban planners warn that such activities threaten the delicate estuarine ecosystem and intensify flood risks for neighbouring areas. These zones, which fall under Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ-I), are meant to be protected from any form of urban intrusion.
“We are witnessing blatant violations of environmental norms. The government needs to act swiftly before we lose what remains of the Adyar estuary,” said an activist from the Save Chennai Water Bodies group.
Satellite images and ground surveys conducted over the past month show that many temporary sheds, housing units, and construction debris have begun to encroach dangerously close to the river’s edge.
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Local officials have cited challenges including resistance from encroachers, lack of manpower, and delays in securing police support for evictions. The High Court is expected to review the compliance report next month, and civil society groups are urging immediate legal intervention.