Scientists urge T.N. CM Stalin to withdraw Mamallan Reservoir proposal

22 ecologists, hydrologists, ornithologists, and marine biologists have written to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, urging the Tamil Nadu government to withdraw the proposed Mamallan Reservoir project in the Kovalam-Nemmeli backwater system. The scientists argue that restricting tidal flow would damage the wetland's biodiversity and ecosystem functions, including seagrass patches, mudflats, and brackish habitats essential for fish and shrimp. They also highlight hydrological risks associated with the project, such as increased flooding risk and cyclone vulnerability. The group suggests declaring the site a protected lagoonal wetland instead to strengthen conservation efforts.