CHENNAI: The southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered the State government to probe the alleged coastal violations in the eco-sensitive Muttukadu lagoon and surrounding areas, where several luxury bungalows were built and a road was laid in the middle of the lagoon.
Taking note of an Express report, the NGT questioned the authorities on how bungalows are allowed to be constructed so close to the sea violating the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules. “The photograph in the article clearly shows a road laid across the lagoon, providing access to these properties. We want to know whether any permission is given to construct these bungalows. If yes, on what grounds the permission is granted,” the bench comprising Justice Jyothimani and expert member P S Rao said, asking special government pleader Manohar to submit a report on September 14.
As per the 2011 CRZ notification, the land falls in CRZ-III where area up to 200 m from High Tide Line on the landward side in case of seafront is earmarked as No Development Zone (NDZ). No construction is permitted within the NDZ, except for repairs or reconstruction of existing authorised structure of dwelling units of traditional coastal communities. Meanwhile, officials of the Department of Environment made a spot inspection. The Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture officials have briefed them about the violation and are seeking police protection to remove the encroachment. The CIBA officials told Express that the institute was ready to provide livelihood options for traditional fishermen, but alleged that there was a group of migrants who routinely try to create trouble.