Madras High Court requests Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology to study revitalisation of Ukkadam and Valankulam lakes in Coimbatore

When it comes to the ecological impact of urban growth on natural habitats, many seek clarity on how such projects affect local wildlife, especially bird populations. The recent efforts by the Coimbatore Municipal Corporation to rejuvenate the Ukkadam and Valankulam lakes have raised questions about their consequences on avian species that rely on these waterbodies for nesting and survival. Environmentalists and concerned citizens alike are eager to understand whether these restoration activities prioritize human needs over ecological balance. This concern has prompted judicial intervention to ensure that development does not come at the cost of biodiversity. The following sections explore the ongoing investigation, the court’s directives, and the broader implications for urban ecological management.

Judicial Intervention in Urban Lake Restoration

The Madras High Court has taken a proactive stance by involving the Salim Ali Center for ornithology and Natural History (SACON) to assess the environmental impact of the lake revitalisation projects in Coimbatore.A Division Bench comprising Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy mandated the deployment of two ornithology experts to conduct a thorough study. This move underscores the judiciary’s commitment to balancing urban development with ecological preservation. The court has also instructed the State government, the Coimbatore Corporation, and the Forest Department to provide full cooperation to the experts, ensuring a thorough evaluation.

Focus on Bird Conservation Amid Development

Initial observations by the court suggested that the lake restoration efforts appeared to be more focused on human-centric benefits rather than ecological well-being. The key question posed to the experts is whether the ongoing developmental activities adversely affect the nesting patterns or other behaviors of both migratory and resident birds. This concern is particularly meaningful given that these lakes serve as critical habitats for various avian species. The court has emphasized the need for recommendations that would allow continued development without compromising the natural life cycles of these birds.

Details of the Corporation’s Response and Environmental Measures

In response to a petition filed by environmental activist Muralidharan, the Coimbatore Municipal Corporation submitted a detailed counter affidavit clarifying several points. It highlighted that solar panels installed on Ukkadam lake cover a mere 0.2 acres, which is only 0.05% of the lake’s total area, and asserted that these panels do not obstruct sunlight essential for aquatic life. Moreover, the Corporation confirmed that only non-motorized boats such as rowing and pedal boats are used, primarily for rescue operations, eliminating concerns about diesel or mechanized boat pollution. Additionally, the Corporation has ceased conducting laser light shows at both lakes, which were previously criticized for disturbing wildlife.

Restrictions on Noise and Light Pollution in Urban Lakes

Following the submissions, the court issued a strict directive banning sound and light shows involving loudspeakers, high decibel levels, and firecrackers not only at Ukkadam and Valankulam lakes but also across all lakes managed by the Corporation, the Public Works department, and other local authorities in the region.This ruling aims to curb noise pollution and protect the sensitive habitats of birds and other wildlife. The prohibition reflects a growing recognition of the detrimental effects of such disturbances on urban ecosystems.

Expert Study and Future Recommendations

Despite assurances from the Corporation that the bird nesting islands remain undisturbed,the court has insisted on an autonomous expert evaluation to verify these claims. The appointed committee from SACON has been given a two-month timeframe to complete their study and submit a comprehensive report by February 20, 2026. Their findings will be crucial in shaping future policies to ensure that urban development projects harmonize with the conservation of both migratory and resident bird species in these vital waterbodies.

Vital Facts: Key Points to Remember

• The Madras high Court has involved the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) to study the impact of lake restoration on birds.
• Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy form the Division Bench overseeing the case.
• The study focuses on the effects of development on both migratory and resident bird populations in Ukkadam and Valankulam lakes.
• The Corporation’s affidavit states solar panels cover only 0.05% (0.2 acres) of Ukkadam lake and do not block sunlight for aquatic species.
• Only rowing and pedal boats are used in the lakes, primarily for rescue, with no diesel or mechanized boats permitted.
• Laser light shows have been discontinued at both lakes to reduce disturbance to wildlife.
• The court has banned sound and light shows involving loudspeakers, firecrackers, and other noise pollution across all local lakes.
• The expert committee must submit its report by February 20, 2026, with recommendations for eco-friendly development.
• The study aims to balance urban development with the preservation of natural habitats for birds.
• The Coimbatore Municipal Corporation,State government,and Forest Department are required to assist the expert panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why has the Madras High Court involved SACON in this matter? The court has sought expert evaluation from SACON to objectively assess whether the lake restoration activities negatively impact bird populations, ensuring that ecological concerns are scientifically addressed.

Q: What specific concerns were raised about the lake revitalisation projects? Concerns include potential disruption to bird nesting sites, obstruction of sunlight due to solar panels, noise and light pollution from events, and the use of mechanized boats that could harm aquatic and avian life.

Q: How has the Coimbatore Municipal Corporation responded to these concerns? The Corporation clarified that solar panels cover a minimal area, only non-motorized boats are used, laser light shows have been stopped, and bird nesting islands remain untouched, aiming to minimize ecological disturbance.

Q: What restrictions has the court imposed regarding noise and light pollution? The court has prohibited sound and light shows involving loudspeakers, firecrackers, and other noise-polluting activities at all lakes under local government control to protect wildlife habitats.

Q: When is the expert committee expected to submit its findings? The appointed experts from SACON are required to complete their study and submit a detailed report by February 20, 2026, including recommendations for lasting development practices.