Concerns Mount Over Sand Dune Levelling for Beach Beautification Project

The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority’s (CMDA) beach beautification project, which involves levelling sand dunes along the Injambakkam beach, has raised serious environmental concerns. Sand dunes, formed naturally by the interaction of tides, waves, and sand particles, act as a crucial barrier against erosion and storm damage. Environmentalists warn that flattening these dunes for construction projects not only disrupts the ecosystem but also exposes coastal areas to increased vulnerability from waves and storms.

The project, which includes the construction of a pedestrian walkway and other amenities, has drawn criticism for violating Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms. Residents and environmentalists are calling for an immediate halt to the construction, emphasizing the need to prioritize the restoration and protection of the fragile coastal ecosystem. Despite obtaining CRZ clearance, concerns remain about the project’s impact on biodiversity, including nesting sites for migratory birds and Olive Ridley turtles.