In the heart of north Chennai lies Ennore, a region grappling with escalating environmental crises that residents say make daily life increasingly unbearable. “Don’t ask what problems Ennore has — ask what problems it doesn’t have,” lamented a local as he described the myriad challenges facing this heavily industrialized area. For decades, Ennore has been synonymous with pollution, its coastal landscape suffering from the repercussions of unchecked industrial activity.
The plight of residents came to a head in December 2023 when two major environmental incidents-the oil spill from a state-run refinery amid Cyclone Michaung and an ammonia leak from a nearby fertilizer plant-highlighted the ongoing struggles of the community. K. Devaki, a long-time resident of Sathyavani Muthu Nagar, recalls how, in 1975, she had to travel two kilometers for clean water. “The water quality was terrible, and my children’s teeth and health suffered from excessive fluoride,” shared the 69-year-old, noting persistent issues with hair loss and respiratory problems due to poor air quality.
Residents around Sathyavani Muthu Nagar have recently reported a powdery substance settling on their homes, attributed to emissions from a nearby factory. Bhagathsingh, a local from Ulaganathapuram, voiced frustration over the myriad forms of pollution they endure-from fly ash to visible effluent discoloring their waterways. “While industrial development rapidly advanced, basic infrastructure has lagged behind,” he noted, highlighting a lack of progress that aligns with the needs of the predominantly working-class community. Many families are now considering relocation, motivated primarily by health concerns linked to worsening pollution.
Air and water contamination top the list of residents’ worries. Manohar, a local from Nehru Nagar, described mornings filled with factory dust and evenings shrouded in smoke. “The groundwater is often unsuitable for even bathing,” he disclosed, while other residents echoed his experience, revealing layers of oil floating atop their drinking water sourced from Metrowater.
Fishermen dependent on the Ennore creek and surrounding waters for their livelihoods face dwindling catches as industrial runoff devastates marine life. D. Venkatesan, a fisherman from Ennore Kuppam, lamented the changing landscape: “Once a thriving fishing ground, the creek now struggles with pollution, leaving many unable to cover daily expenses.” He called for government intervention to restore the ecosystem and support the affected fishing communities.
Despite the pressing issues, residents express skepticism about government engagement. Complaints to the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board have gone largely unaddressed, with local advocates calling for rigorous monitoring of industrial compliance with pollution regulations. Bhagathsingh and others have voiced the urgent need for comprehensive health screenings to gauge the pollution’s impact.
Kalanidhi Veeraswamy, the Member of Parliament for Chennai North, acknowledged ongoing communication with nearby companies to improve air quality. He outlined plans for air monitoring installations, particularly at major intersections, and mentioned the desilting efforts for the Kosasthalaiyar river as part of broader remediation plans.
As Ennore grapples with its environmental challenges, the resilience of its residents shines through. Their calls for accountability and action highlight the pressing need for sustainable practices that protect both the community and its environment. In this industrial hub, the battle against pollution continues, underscoring the urgent necessity for change.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/ennore-where-industrial-growth-has-made-life-difficult-for-residents/article69644638.ece
Category : Chennai
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Publish Date: 2025-06-03 06:00:00
