Chennai ECR Crackdown: 21 Sea-Facing Bungalows and Villas Face Eviction Over CRZ Violations
Chennai, August 28, 2026: A major crackdown on coastal property violations is underway along Chennai's East Coast Road (ECR), with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) issuing eviction notices to residents of 21 sea-facing bungalows, houses and other structures in Neelankarai, Injambakkam and Uthandi.
Owners have been given 15 days to vacate, after which the civic body may seal the properties and proceed with demolition.
Why Are These Properties Facing Action?
The properties have allegedly violated Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules governing construction near the coastline.
Under CRZ-II regulations, construction is permitted on the landward side of an existing road or approved infrastructure that existed in 1991. The permissible FSI is 0.8.
The affected properties fall in wards 192, 194 and 197 along ECR.
3 More Houses Asked to Fix Violations
Apart from the 21 properties facing eviction, GCC has directed owners of three additional houses to rectify FSI violations and other deviations.
Officials said surveys of sea-facing structures are continuing to identify further violations and prevent unauthorised construction along the coast.
700 Properties Were Identified Earlier
The civic body had identified around 700 structures for enforcement action as early as 2020. However, implementation was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, elections and ongoing court proceedings.
Around 400 property owners have approached the Madras High Court, while another 400 have appealed before the Housing and Urban Development Department.
Property Owners Raise Concerns
Residents argue that several of the affected buildings were constructed decades ago when CRZ regulations were not widely understood. Some owners also point to long-term payment of property tax, electricity and water charges.
However, the civic body's ongoing action indicates that existing construction and approvals may still be subject to applicable coastal regulations.
What This Means for ECR Property Owners
The action is significant for homeowners and investors along Chennai's coastline. Properties near the sea can face additional regulatory restrictions beyond normal building approvals, particularly relating to FSI, construction limits and CRZ compliance.
Anyone planning to buy or construct a coastal property should verify the applicable CRZ classification, sanctioned plans and permissions before investing.
Grihik Takeaway: The Chennai ECR action is a reminder that property approvals alone may not be enough for coastal developments. Buyers and existing owners should verify CRZ compliance and sanctioned construction details to avoid serious legal and financial risks.