Fresh study not needed, give action plan to remove Kakka Aazhi: NGT

CHENNAI: Observing that studies have already been completed on the menace of invasive Kakka Aazhi (Charru Mussel - Mytella Strigata), the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directed the Chief Secretary to issue a plan of action to remove it from Ennore region instead of conducting fresh studies.

While hearing a case regarding the invasive species on August 30, judicial member Justice Pushpa Satyanarayana and expert member Satyagopal Korlapati observed that there was already a joint study by Dr MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute and Tamil Nadu Dr J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri, and a final report on Chaaru Mussel invasion at Ennore region was submitted. The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has also given a report in this regard.

"Therefore, in our opinion, no further related study is required in this regard, as has been decided in the meeting by the Chief Secretary. In the meeting, it was decided to have the interim finding of the study to be made available within 3 months’ time. As pointed out, the above report is already available, it would suffice if the Chief Secretary can give the plan of action in this regard with the time frame for completion of the task," the bench said.

A few days ago, Chief Secretary N Muruganandam chaired a meeting with officials from the departments of Environment, Water Resources, Fisheries, and Kamarajar Port, and instructed officials to focus on short and long-term measures to find a permanent solution to the menace. The meeting was based on an earlier instruction from the NGT.

During the meeting, Muruganandam directed the Central Institute of Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture (CIBA) to submit a joint proposal to the principal chief conservator of forests and member secretary, Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority, for undertaking a scientific study to suggest effective measures to control and eliminate the invasive mussel.

In December 2022, fishermen from Kattupakkam and environmentalists from Save Ennore Creek Campaign raised alarm on unchecked invasion by Charru Mussels in Ennore and Pulicat wetlands. One of the fishermen from the region has filed a petition with the tribunal seeking the removal of the invasive species.