The Tamil Nadu government is set to intensify the works to remove the oil spill in Ennore Creek in Chennai to meet the deadline set by the National Green Tribunal on December 17. The government is also expected to submit a report on the day of the deadline. Till now, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) and Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TPCB) have deployed 75 boats with 300 personnel to carry out the cleaning work.
The deployment of booms, skimmers, and skilled experts has also been increased by the state government. The NGT is slated to consider the matter on December 18, and efforts are underway to present a comprehensive report.
Previously, the Tribunal had criticized the state government and authorities for the delay in responding to the disaster. It raised questions to the CPCL, seeking clarification on whether they truly comprehended the gravity of the situation. The CPCL maintained that, with their utmost efforts, they would clear 95 percent of the oil spill by December 18.
Authorities express optimism that the cleanup will be completed by December 17, as per a report on IANS.
On December 4, as floodwaters from cyclone Michaung entered homes and buildings, oil began to leak from the CPCL refinery into the Kosasthalaiyar River in north Chennai through the Buckingham Canal and storm drains.
The efforts to control the spread reportedly commenced on December 7.
The Tamil Nadu government asserts that they have removed 20 tonnes of oil-soaked soil and 7,000 liters of affected water thus far. An inquiry is underway to ascertain the cause of the spillage.
A study has been initiated to evaluate the environmental impact, and consultation with IIT-Madras has been sought for the scientific removal of the spill and the restoration of water quality.
Cyclone Michaung which brought record rainfall to Chennai created havoc in the city.
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