75% boundary demarcation done near Buckingham Canal: WRD

CHENNAI: At least 75 per cent boundary demarcation survey has been completed around Buckingham Canal within the city limit as part of the restoration project, said Water Resources Department (WRD). A total cost of Rs 403 crore has been fixed for decanal project by the department.

"Recently, we alloted an agency to get Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance, but it would take at least eight months for the approval. In addition, an estimated cost of Rs 403 crore was fixed for decanal project, which includes canal improvement, water flow development and garbage bin placement near the water body," said a senior WRD official.

As of now, 75 per cent boundary demarcation is done near the Buckingham Canal in the city limit. Later, the survey will be taken over Chennai outskirts, and Chengalpattu district.

"Once the demarcation survey is completed, we will get the list of encroachments around the water body. The notice will be issued to the residents, and the reallocation to happen next year because the houses expected to be ready for these people by December 2022," said the official

They added that along with the Greater Chennai Corporation and Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board, the eviction drive of the encroachments near the Buckingham Canal will begin.

As part of the eco-restoration project, the desilting will begin, followed by strengthening the bund, fencing will be put on both the side of the water body and finally, the plantation will happen. The work is expected to begin in 2023.