Tamil NaduMonday, 20 July 2026·The Hindu - Tamil Nadu
Pallikaranai marshland notification: why Chennai’s wetland matters for water security
PMK has urged the Tamil Nadu government to officially notify the Pallikaranai marshland and protect it from encroachment and dumping.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On Sunday, July 20, 2026, PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss and Assembly floor leader Sowmiya Anbumani held a signature campaign in Pondy Bazaar, Chennai, demanding that the Tamil Nadu government officially notify the Pallikaranai marshland.
Key specifics
- The campaign was held in Pondy Bazaar, Chennai, on July 20, 2026.
- Dr. Anbumani said about 5,000 tonnes of garbage are dumped and burnt in the marshland every day.
- Chennai has a population of nearly 10 million, according to the speech cited in the report.
- The marshland was described as a sponge that absorbs rainwater and supports groundwater recharge.
- The demand was for the State government to demarcate and officially notify the Pallikaranai marshland to prevent encroachment.
Exam lens
TN state governance and environment question: Pallikaranai marshland, notification, encroachment, and urban water security. TNPSC may ask why wetlands are important for Chennai’s groundwater and flood absorption.