Article 2 : Quenching Chennai’s growing thirst
Why in News: The Tamil Nadu government has launched the Mamallan drinking water reservoir project near Mamallapuram to augment Chennai’s water supply. The project has triggered opposition from fishermen and local residents over concerns of livelihood loss and ecological disruption in a fragile brackish-water ecosystem.
Key Details
- Project cost: ₹342.6 crore
- Foundation stone: Laid on January 19 by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin
- Water source status: Sixth drinking water source for Chennai
- Location: Thiruporur taluk, Chengalpattu district, between ECR and OMR, near Mamallapuram
- Capacity: 1.65 TMC with supply potential of 170 MLD
- Beneficiaries: About 13 lakh people including Sholinganallur, Pallikaranai, Siruseri, Mamallapuram
Key Aspects
- Water scarcity: Chennai lacks a perennial water source and depends on Krishna water
- Rising demand: Current demand of 1,100 MLD expected to double in 10 years
- CMA projection: Water demand projected at 2,500 MLD by 2035
- Fishermen concerns: Fear of loss of customary fishing grounds and violation of CRZ norms
- Buckingham Canal issue: Reservoir may block natural water flow, affecting fisheries
- Government defence: Project will act as a flood buffer and prevent sea water intrusion
- Urban pressure: IT-led growth along ECR–OMR has reduced flood plains and swamps
Way Forward
- Stakeholder consultation: Engage fishermen and local communities meaningfully
- Environmental safeguards: Ensure strict CRZ compliance and ecosystem protection
- Mitigation measures: Provide alternative livelihoods and fishing opportunities
- Infrastructure balance: Combine water security with ecological sustainability
Conclusion
- Development trade-off: Water security is critical but comes with social and environmental costs
- Policy imperative: Development must remain inclusive and sustainable
- Historical continuity: Sustainable water management would honour the Pallava legacy, including Mamallan.