Will CM Stalin Address Kolathur Water Body Encroachments?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu BJP has urged CM M.K. Stalin to fulfill electoral promises regarding water body encroachments in Kolathur. Following a Madras High Court ruling, the BJP emphasizes the need for swift action to restore Vannankulam Lake and other water bodies. Can the Chief Minister meet the expectations of his constituents?
Key Takeaways
- M.K. Stalin is urged to act against encroachments on Kolathur's water bodies.
- The Madras High Court has mandated the removal of encroachments.
- A long-standing issue that affects the local community's water resources.
- BJP emphasizes the need for accountability from political leaders.
- Restoration of water bodies is crucial for ecological balance.
Chennai, Dec 25 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu faction of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to address the long-standing electoral commitments made to the citizens of Kolathur, particularly concerning the eviction of encroachments on water bodies within the region.
In a statement released on Thursday, A.N.S. Prasad, State Spokesperson for the Tamil Nadu BJP, emphasized that the matter has gained new urgency following a recent ruling by the Madras High Court instructing authorities to eliminate encroachments on Vannankulam Lake in Kolathur.
The High Court's decision was in response to a petition lodged by Advocate Devaraj, a Kolathur local, who requested the removal of encroachments affecting nearly 350 acres in the Peravallur vicinity.
The petition brought to light illegal occupations on Vannankulam Lake, various ponds and tanks, and government poramboke lands, all of which are vital catchment areas during the monsoon season.
A division bench, including Chief Justice M.M. Srivatsava and Justice G. Arul Murugan, mandated the Revenue Department, the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board, and the Greater Chennai Corporation to act on a “war-footing” to remove these encroachments.
The BJP has now appealed to the Chief Minister to provide distinct directives to these departments for a prompt and time-sensitive execution of the court’s instructions. The party pointed out that, as both the MLA of Kolathur and the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Stalin bears a moral responsibility to engage personally and resolve the persistent issue of water body encroachments.
It is claimed that despite numerous and consistent rulings by various courts mandating the safeguarding and restoration of water bodies, successive directives have not been seriously implemented.
While recognizing the advancements made in Kolathur between 2021 and 2025 in sectors like hospitals, playgrounds, and bus terminals, the BJP highlighted that many fundamental promises remain unfulfilled. This includes the widening of Paper Mills Road from Perambur Church to Retteri Junction, a pledge made over 15 years ago.
The BJP also alleged that many encroachments were facilitated during previous governments with the involvement of political affiliates, recalling Stalin’s 2011 promise to entirely remove encroachments, restore ponds and tanks, and protect drinking water resources in Kolathur.
Calling for immediate action, the party has urged the Chief Minister to set a precedent by enforcing the High Court’s ruling without hesitation and ensuring the comprehensive restoration of Kolathur’s water bodies.
Point of View
The ongoing encroachment of water bodies in Kolathur highlights a significant governance challenge. The BJP's call to action underscores the importance of accountability among political leaders, particularly when it comes to environmental preservation. The Madras High Court's involvement adds a layer of urgency that cannot be ignored, as communities rely on these water bodies for sustenance and ecological balance.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current issue regarding Kolathur's water bodies?
The BJP is urging CM M.K. Stalin to address encroachments on water bodies in Kolathur, particularly following a High Court order to clear illegal occupations on Vannankulam Lake.
What did the Madras High Court rule?
The Madras High Court directed authorities to eliminate encroachments from Vannankulam Lake and other water bodies, emphasizing immediate action.
What are the historical commitments related to Kolathur's water bodies?
There have been long-standing electoral promises made by the Chief Minister to restore and protect the water bodies in Kolathur, which have yet to be fulfilled.
Why is the BJP calling for action now?
The BJP sees the recent High Court ruling as a catalyst for immediate action, urging the Chief Minister to take responsibility and uphold his commitments.
What are the implications of these encroachments?
Encroachments on water bodies can lead to ecological imbalances, affecting water availability and quality for the local population, especially during monsoon seasons.
