NGT Matter — Sewage Discharge into Puzhal Lake, Chennai

Updates

1. News31 Aug 2026

   NGT pulls up authorities over sewage discharge into Puzhal lake

   …sewerage connections in 30 streets around Puzhal Lake, noting that no progress report had been filed since January 2025…

   Explanation in simple terms

   A court that handles environmental cases has criticized government officials for allowing dirty water from sewage to flow into Puzhal Lake in Chennai. This is harmful because it pollutes the water and damages the lake's ecosystem. The court has essentially scolded the authorities for not preventing this pollution and protecting the lake properly.

   thehindu.com
2. Hearing30 Jun 2026

   TNPCB contradicts Metro Water claims on Puzhal pollution

   The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has challenged claims made by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board regarding sewage discharge into Puzhal lake. TNPCB testing identified the presence of fecal coliform in the reservoir, indicating that untreated sewage from residential areas is entering the drinking water supply.

   Explanation in simple terms

   The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and the city water agency are currently disagreeing about the pollution levels in Puzhal Lake. While the water agency claims the lake is not being harmed, the pollution board has provided evidence that contradicts this statement. This conflict is now being reviewed by the National Green Tribunal to determine the truth about sewage discharge into the water source. The court will decide how to proceed based on these conflicting reports.

   newindianexpress.com