₹40 Crore Allotted for Ennore Creek Restoration under T.N. Coastal Restoration Mission

Ennore Creek, a vital component of the eco-sensitive Ennore Wetlands in north Chennai, is set to undergo restoration as part of the Tamil Nadu Coastal Restoration Mission, with a budget allocation of ₹40 crore. The wetlands have faced significant environmental challenges, including pollution from industries and an oil spill, leading to a degradation of the ecosystem.

A Government Order issued by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Environment, Climate Change, and Forests Department highlighted the allocation for Ennore Creek’s restoration. In response to environmental concerns, the National Green Tribunal had earlier directed the state to safeguard the remaining portions of Ennore wetlands under the Tamil Nadu Wetland Mission.

Previous efforts for Ennore Creek’s restoration were initiated by the Chennai Rivers Restoration Trust and the Water Resources Department, with a proposed project cost of ₹189 crore. Recently, the Water Resources Department initiated the construction of a training wall at the creek’s mouth to prevent sedimentation and enhance tidal exchange.