Ennore Villagers Suffer as Fly Ash Piles Remain

In Nettukuppam, Ennore, approximately 150 homes have endured persistent health issues and environmental degradation for several years. The cause is the substantial accumulation of fly ash mixed with river sand along the Kosasthalaiyar river floodplains, situated less than a kilometre from the North Chennai Thermal Power Station. This situation persists despite a National Green Tribunal order issued four years ago mandating the removal of these toxic deposits.

These fly ash particles, a byproduct of burning coal in thermal power plants, are similar to those involved in a 2017 leak that released thousands of tonnes of toxic ash into Ennore creek and the Kosasthalaiyar river. Residents report that children experience wheezing, particularly at night, indicating the severe health impact of the accumulated fly ash. Activists note that fly ash also contaminates the Buckingham Canal and is visible at the riverbed during low tide.

While the Tiruvallur collector initiated a ₹28 crore river desilting project last year, with 80% of the first phase complete, the overall removal of fly ash is significantly delayed. Tangedco claims that 12.39 lakh tonnes of ash have been removed in phases and all fly ash pipelines have been replaced. However, residents and environmentalists highlight ongoing issues like hot water leaks from pipelines and inadequate lining at the ash dyke, allowing seepage into canals.

Environmental concerns extend to the impact on local livelihoods. Fishermen report a decline in crab, prawn, and fish populations, attributing the contamination to the fly ash. Efforts by the state government and IIT Madras to strengthen the ash pond are reportedly minimal, with promises of future action. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board states that no fly ash leaks have occurred since 2017, but acknowledges occasional leaks from water pipelines.