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DMK moves Madras High Court against new Rs 1,200 crore secretariat project in Pattinapakkam
Reported by Arjun Sethi (Fact-Checker) · Daily Thanthi ·
Confirmed by a second source: Nakkheeran
The Legal Challenge
A former DMK MLA has filed a petition in the Madras High Court to cancel the state government order for building a new secretariat in Pattinapakkam. The project is planned at a cost of 1,200 crore rupees.
Grounds and Protests
Former Mylapore MLA Velu filed the case stating that no information is available on whether permission was obtained from the environment and coastal zone management authority. The petition points out that Pattinapakkam falls under the coastal regulation zone where no construction should take place within 500 meters from the sea, and warns that a secretariat in this crowded area will cause trouble for the public. Local fishermen and residents also fear the coastal project will ruin their traditional fishing work and daily livelihood. Political parties have strongly opposed the plan announced earlier by Chief Minister Vijay in the assembly under the newly formed TVK government.
ExplainerWhy this matters
What Happened
A former DMK MLA has approached the Madras High Court to cancel the government order for a new 1,200 crore rupee secretariat in Pattinapakkam, citing environmental rules and lack of clearances.
Why It Matters
This case raises important questions about urban planning, traffic congestion in crowded parts of Chennai, and the protection of coastal regulation zones. It also highlights the livelihood concerns of local fishing communities who depend on the coastal area for their traditional work.
What Happens Next
The Madras High Court will hear the petition and examine whether the government obtained the required clearances from environmental and coastal authorities before moving forward with the project.