The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department to immediately begin a large-scale cleanup operation along North Chennai’s coastline, stretching from Kasimedu to Ennore.
The order was issued after reports highlighted the formation of massive “garbage islands” caused mainly by thermocol waste, plastic packaging, and floating debris entering the sea through the Adyar and Cooum rivers. The tribunal observed that the accumulated waste poses a serious threat to marine life, fishing activities, and public health.
A bench comprising Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Prashant Gargava instructed authorities to form a joint committee involving GCC officials, the Fisheries Department, Chennai Port Trust, and Kasimedu Fishing Harbour authorities to supervise the cleanup operations.
The tribunal also suggested utilizing the ongoing annual fishing ban period for extensive harbour cleaning and debris removal, noting that fishermen could actively participate in the drive while fishing activities remain suspended. Officials were additionally advised to install booms and skimmers in rivers to prevent floating waste from reaching the sea.
News as Reported.
