General Secretary Aiadmk Edappadi K. Palaniswami. file | Photo credit: E. Lakshmi Naldayanan
AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Sunday (October 26, 2025) opposed the notified permission and approval granted for a project to construct a multi-storied building in Pallikaranai Swamp, which has been recognized as a Ramsar site.
In a statement, Mr. Palaniswami highlighted the importance of the Pallikaranai wetlands and called the steps taken by the former AIADMK regime under the National Climate Change Adaptation Fund to protect the wetlands. He also pointed to the National Green Tribunal’s order against construction near a Ramsar site.
Referring to reports that Brigade Enterprises Limited has given permission for a project spread over 15 acres to build 1,250 housing units, Mr. Palaniswami cited expert opinion that doubts the stability of the proposed project built over a swamp.
“We cannot allow the DMK government to play with people’s lives. What is the tension behind government ministries, including forest, revenue and environment, giving permission for a project that would affect the environment?” Mr. Palaniswami questioned and further doubted whether corruption played a role.
The former chief minister further asserted, “The AIADMK will not remain a mute spectator to the government allowing a project whose construction will affect the marshes that protect Chennai from floods. When the AIADMK comes to power, it will order a detailed inquiry into the issue and legal action will be initiated against those responsible.”
Published – 26 October 2025 22:50 IST
