CHENNAI: A grassroots environmental campaign has uncovered large-scale encroachments by aquaculture farms within the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the Pulicat bird sanctuary in Tiruvallur district, alleging violations of environmental laws and severe disruption to local livelihoods.
In a detailed report titled “Aquaculture Land Grab”, the Save Ennore Creek Campaign revealed that 309 acres—equivalent to 34 cricket fields—have been taken over by shrimp farms. Of this, 62 acres fall under poramboke lands meant for grazing (Meikkal) and floodplains (Kazhuveli), which are vital to Scheduled Caste communities in Thangalperumbulam, Ponneri Taluk. Residents depend on these lands for cattle grazing, farming, and fishing.
Despite laws under the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) Act, 2005 (amended in 2023), that prohibit aquaculture within 100 metres of waterbodies or farmland, 173 acres of shrimp farms were found within these restricted zones—including 110 acres near the Kosasthalaiyar River and 50 acres near agricultural land.
Shockingly, eight of the nine farms registered with the CAA were found to be violating buffer zone restrictions. Locals reported loss of grazing land, rising soil salinity affecting food security, and restricted access to traditional livelihoods.
Women cattle-rearers, like Mary from Thangalperumbulam, demanded government action. “The farms are taking away our livelihood. These lands belong to the community,” she said. Wildlife activists noted sightings of painted storks and flamingos being threatened by habitat loss.
A senior environment official acknowledged the seriousness of the claims and said checks will follow, though some farms may predate current regulations. The Tiruvallur Collector was unavailable for comment.
- Trump’s tariff deadline looms, raising concerns for Indian exports
- Microplastics on your plate: a hidden threat in seafood
#PulicatSanctuary
#WetlandEncroachment
#EnvironmentalJustice
#AquacultureViolations