Arappor Iyakkam alleges illegal plan approval for building on Pallikaranai marshland

Arappor Iyakkam, a non-governmental organisation, has alleged that illegal environmental clearance and plan approval were granted for a project to construct multi-storeyed building within the Pallikaranai marshland, which was recognised as a Ramsar site.

In a press conference held in the city on Thursday, Jayaram Venkatesan, the NGO’s convenor, said the 14.7 acre land proposed for the project—Brigade Morgan Heights—by Brigade Enterprises Limited in Perumbakkam falls within the Ramsar site boundary of the Pallikaranai marshland as per the map of the State Wetland Authority of Tamil Nadu.

Complaint to DVAC

In a detailed complaint submitted to the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), Chief Minister’s office and various other government agencies, the Arappor Iyakkam said the environment clearance and plan approval for a project worth ₹2,000 crore was obtained illegally for the extent of land at survey numbers- 453, 495/2c, 496,497 and 498- in Perumbakkam.

Flood risk

If the project is completed, it would worsen the flood risk of surrounding areas, including Perumbakkam and Sholinganallur.

The NGO also noted that the Forest Department had given a false report that the project was 65 metres away from the Pallikaranai marshland whereas the adjoining land was under the control of the Forest Department.

It has submitted an annexure of 26 documents and sought accountability to be fixed for departments like Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority and Forest Department. Alleging gross violation of the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017 that restricted permanent construction activities, the NGO sought immediate cancellation of the approvals and an investigation against the company and government officials for violations.

The land within the marshland must be reclaimed immediately, he said.