On Tuesday, the High Court declined to hear a batch of petitions challenging the construction of a multi-storey residential complex by a private real estate developer near the Pallikaranai marshland, part of which has been designated as a Ramsar site. A division bench observed that it could not undertake a parallel hearing when the Supreme Court is already examining issues related to wetlands across the country, including those in Tamil Nadu. The court stated that the petitioners are at liberty to approach the Supreme Court for appropriate relief. The matter concerns construction activities initiated near the Pallikaranai marshland. The petitioners contended that such developmental activities are prohibited within the Ramsar-designated area and its surrounding zones. They sought to quash the environmental clearance and building plan approvals granted for the project. According to the submissions made in court, the Pallikaranai marsh reserve forest and Ramsar site together cover a total extent of 3,082.74 acres. Of this, only 1,717.08 acres have reportedly been handed over to the forest department. The petitioners urged the court to direct the government to transfer the remaining land falling within the Ramsar site boundaries to the forest department for protection and conservation.

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