Coalition Challenges Mamallan Reservoir Panel Over Alleged Conflict of Interest
Over 25 environmental groups demand an independent review of the Mamallan Reservoir Project, citing risks to coastal ecology and local fishing livelihoods. The collective argues the current state-led technical committee lacks neutrality since the project proponent is leading the investigation.
Key takeaways
- More than 25 organizations have petitioned the Tamil Nadu government to reconstitute the Mamallan Reservoir technical committee.
- The collective argues that the Water Resources Department cannot objectively review a project it originally proposed.
- Current construction has already obstructed the Buckingham Canal, impacting the livelihoods of 12,000 fishers and tribal women.
- Environmentalists warn that failing to account for tidal dynamics and the Bay of Bengal makes the reservoir project technically unviable.
Conflict of Interest Alleged in Project Oversight
The Save Nemmeli Marshlands Collective has formally petitioned the Tamil Nadu government to restructure the High-Level Technical Committee currently evaluating the Mamallan Reservoir Project. In a letter sent to Rural Development and Water Resources Minister N. Anand and Chief Secretary M. Sai Kumar, the coalition argued that the committee's leadership by the Water Resources Department (WRD) Chief Engineer creates an inherent bias. Because the WRD originally proposed the project, the collective maintains that the department cannot objectively audit its own plans.
Environmental and Economic Risks
The advocacy groups contend that the reservoir design fails to incorporate critical maritime data, including tidal dynamics and the impact of extreme sea-borne weather. By overlooking the proximity of the Bay of Bengal, the project threatens the integrity of the Kovalam-Nemmeli salt marshes. According to the collective, these ecological disruptions jeopardize the livelihoods of roughly 12,000 fishers, including tribal women, and risk wasting significant public funds on an unviable structure.
Immediate Halt Demanded
Reports from the site indicate that construction has already commenced, despite the pending review. The collective alleges that the ongoing blockage of the Buckingham Canal is currently degrading the marsh ecosystem. They have called for a total suspension of all site works until a reconstituted panel—featuring independent scientists, technical specialists, and representatives from traditional fishing communities—can deliver a comprehensive feasibility report.
Key Facts
- The Save Nemmeli Marshlands Collective represents more than 25 organizations, including the Chennai Climate Action Group and the Madras Naturalists' Society.
- Critics highlight that the WRD is acting as both the project proponent and the primary reviewer.
- Approximately 12,000 local fishers and tribal communities are reportedly impacted by current construction activities.
- Proposed changes to the oversight panel include the addition of experts with local ecological knowledge and neutral technical specialists.
Why It Matters
This dispute highlights the tension between infrastructure development and coastal preservation in Tamil Nadu. The outcome will determine whether traditional ecological knowledge and independent scientific scrutiny can override state-led engineering projects that threaten sensitive wetland habitats and the economic security of indigenous fishing populations.
Source: The Hindu — National
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