GCC is yet to remove encroachments, debris

Time of India

3 days ago

Chennai: Madras high court has ordered removal of encroachments and debris that block water flow during the monsoon near the six-vent culvert at Velachery by June 12, but Greater Chennai Corporation is yet to begin work.
Residents are opposing the proposed eco-park project near the culvert, fearing it will block the flow of excess rainwater from residential areas and cause waterlogging on streets.
Earlier, GCC removed some of the encroachments that disrupted the free flow of water during the northeast monsoon. However, it failed to remove the debris, and many encroachments reappeared in recent years. During the 2024 monsoon, nearby residential areas received 7cm of rain that formed a pond in front of the culvert and caused flooding.
In response to a petition filed by the Residents' Welfare Association, the court in April directed GCC to remove the encroachments and submit a report on the number identified and notices issued to them. "It has been two months. Neither the local body nor the tahsildar inspected the site or took steps to clear the dumped debris and encroachments. Instead, the civic body deposited a huge pile of sand to prepare for the eco-park," says Velachery-based Tansi Nagar Residents' Welfare Association general secretary M Balakrishnan.
"The beautification will obstruct the free flow of excess rainwater from residential areas during the monsoon season."
Residents say the proposed eco-park near the six-vent culvert will not benefit them. "Instead of spending a large sum on this project, GCC should construct another six-vent culvert here to prevent flooding," says J Kamalanathan, another resident of Velachery.
Adyar zonal officer Haritn Rosario says the tahsildar is identifying encroachments near the culvert. GCC will work to remove the illegal structures, he said. The official also noted that penalties and legal action have been initiated against those dumping construction debris and waste."