NGT Imposes ₹25 Lakh Penalty on Tantransco for Ecological Violations in Ennore Creek

The Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fined the Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation (Tantransco) ₹25 lakh for unauthorized installation of electricity transmission towers in Ennore Creek. The ruling, based on petitions from local residents, highlighted deviations from the approved environmental clearance, which prohibited tower construction in mangrove and Coastal Regulation Zone–IA areas.

Tantransco admitted to deviations due to technical needs and has sought regularization. However, their activities, including dumping fly ash and construction debris, have disrupted fishing and tidal flows, harming the ecosystem. The penalty funds are to be used to restore and increase mangrove cover in the affected area, emphasizing Tantransco’s responsibility to maintain ecological integrity.