WRD Aims to Finish Ennore Backwaters Dredging by October to Remove Invasive Mussel

The Water Resources Department is aiming to complete dredging operations in the Ennore backwaters by October to eliminate the invasive Charru mussel, known locally as 'Kakka Azhi', which has disrupted local wetland ecology and fishing activities.

The dredging work is currently being executed along stretches between Kattupalli and Puzhuthivakkam where the invasive species has proliferated. Funded by the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation, the project follows directives issued by the National Green Tribunal.

According to WRD officials, the project in the Kosasthalaiyar river backwaters is being carried out in phases. While a 1,700-metre section was dredged last year, ongoing work covers another 1,700-metre stretch spanning Kattupalli and Puzhuthivakkam alongside a 500-metre branch channel. The department has been dredging to a depth of up to one metre across various sections since March this year, following recommendations from Anna University to dredge along a stretch from Ennore creek toward Pazhaverkadu.

Officials stated that heavily infested sections are being prioritised, and a proposal has been submitted to dredge the stretch near the Ennore estuary. Under current operations, dredged slurry is pumped onto bunds where water drains back into the waterway while the removed mussels are separated for disposal.

Local residents and fishing communities have voiced concerns that one-time dredging may not provide a permanent solution, calling for continuous monitoring of the backwaters to track the spread of the mussel. Bhagath Singh of the Save Ennore Creek Movement stated that dredged material must be disposed of properly and urged authorities to involve fishing community representatives in supervisory roles to protect breeding grounds.

Officials noted that the Fisheries Department has initiated a study to explore methods to eradicate the invasive species. Regarding a recent mass fishkill in the Kosasthalaiyar river, the WRD is coordinating with the Fisheries Department and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to determine the root cause and implement mitigation measures.