Have Encroachments Along Adyar River in TN Been Bulldozed on Madras HC Order?
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Synopsis
The Madras High Court has mandated the removal of encroachments along the Adyar River in Tamil Nadu, sparking a significant eviction drive. With over 50 illegal structures already demolished and plans for further removals, this initiative aims to revive the critically needed Adyar River Restoration Project, ultimately addressing pollution and urban flooding in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Madras High Court's orders lead to the removal of encroachments.
- Over 50 illegal structures demolished in Anakaputhur.
- Eviction affects 593 families in local neighborhoods.
- Alternative housing provided to displaced families.
- The Adyar River Restoration Project aims to prevent flooding and improve water quality.
Chennai, May 22 (NationPress) In response to stringent orders issued by the Madras High Court, officials have commenced the demolition of illegal encroachments along the Adyar riverbank in Tamil Nadu's Anakaputhur, aiming to wrap up the process within a week.
The court had previously set a three-month timeline for the Tamil Nadu government to clear all encroachments hindering the Adyar River Restoration Project.
In a swift reaction, the Water Resources Department began the demolition of unlawful structures on Wednesday, which includes approximately 50 homes in Anakaputhur. Representatives confirmed that this marks the initial phase of the eviction operation.
Future removals will extend to downstream areas such as Thideer Nagar, Jyothi Ammal Nagar, Surya Nagar, and Malligaipoo Nagar in Saidapet and Kotturpuram over the upcoming weeks.
An official from the Water Resources Department stated, “We will carry out the clearance, one neighborhood at a time, in accordance with the court’s order. The project had faced significant delays due to these encroachments.”
Furthermore, the state’s Additional Advocate-General J. Ravindran informed the court that these encroachments had obstructed progress on the Adyar River Restoration Project -- a vital initiative valued at Rs 1,500 crore, which has been included in three consecutive budgets since 2023.
Due to these obstructions, contractors were unable to compile a detailed project report, causing indefinite delays.
In Anakaputhur alone, 593 families from neighborhoods such as Quaid-e-Milleth Nagar, Thai Moogambikai Nagar, Santhai Nagar, and MGR Nagar Third Street are facing eviction. However, the state government is assisting these families with alternative housing.
“Each displaced family will receive a 390-square-foot house at no expense. These residences, worth Rs 17 lakh each, are situated in Talaivaram, Keerapakkam, Perumbakkam, and Navalur,” the official elaborated.
The Adyar River Restoration Project is designed to revitalize the severely polluted waterway and mitigate urban flooding -- a frequent challenge during Chennai’s monsoon seasons. Successfully eliminating encroachments is anticipated to finally enable the project’s implementation.
Point of View
Illustrating a broader trend of prioritizing ecological integrity over unchecked urban expansion. As the nation observes, the outcomes of this initiative could set a precedent for similar projects across India.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the eviction of encroachments along the Adyar River?
The Madras High Court issued orders to remove encroachments that obstructed the Adyar River Restoration Project, which is crucial for environmental rejuvenation and urban flood management.
How many families are affected by the evictions in Anakaputhur?
A total of 593 families in Anakaputhur are affected by the eviction process due to encroachments.
What alternative housing is provided to the displaced families?
Displaced families will receive a 390-square-foot house at no cost, with housing options located in areas like Talaivaram and Perumbakkam.
What is the purpose of the Adyar River Restoration Project?
The project aims to revitalize the heavily polluted Adyar River and mitigate urban flooding during monsoon seasons in Chennai.
Why has the Adyar River Restoration Project faced delays?
The presence of illegal encroachments had halted progress on the project, preventing the preparation of necessary project reports.
