The Buckingham Canal near Napier Bridge has been identified as the most polluted stretch in Chennai, with extremely high levels of sewage and industrial waste contaminating the water. Experts warn that the rising pollution levels pose a serious threat to aquatic life and public health.
According to environmental studies, the water quality in this section has deteriorated significantly, making it one of the most hazardous water bodies in Tamil Nadu.
Causes of Pollution in Buckingham Canal
The pollution crisis in the canal is attributed to multiple factors, including:
✅ Untreated sewage discharge from nearby residential areas
✅ Industrial effluents contaminating the water
✅ Plastic waste accumulation, blocking water flow
✅ Lack of proper waste management and drainage systems
Environmental activists claim that despite repeated complaints, authorities have failed to implement effective cleanup measures, allowing pollution levels to worsen.
Experts Call for Immediate Government Action
Key Demands from Environmental Groups & Citizens:
🔹 Strict action against illegal sewage disposal
🔹 Implementation of wastewater treatment plants
🔹 Increased monitoring by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB)
🔹 Restoration initiatives similar to river cleanup projects
Local residents and activists are urging the Chennai Corporation and TNPCB to take urgent measures to prevent further degradation of the canal and protect the city’s fragile water ecosystem.
Government Response & Future Plans
Officials from the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) have acknowledged the issue and stated that a cleanup project is under review. However, environmentalists emphasize that mere plans are not enough, and swift action is necessary.
In the long run, experts suggest implementing sustainable sewage treatment solutions, improving solid waste management, and ensuring strict enforcement of pollution control regulations to restore the Buckingham Canal.
Conclusion: Urgent Need for Restoration Efforts
With the Buckingham Canal near Napier Bridge now considered the most polluted waterbody in Chennai, the need for immediate action is critical. Without swift intervention, the canal may become an irreversible environmental disaster, affecting thousands of lives.
