Madras HC-appointed Advocate Commissioner examines Singanallur lake, assesses biodiversity and water quality
The Madras High Court has appointed an Advocate Commissioner to inspect Singanallur lake following a petition regarding environmental concerns and unauthorized development. The inspection aims to assess biodiversity, water quality, and potential encroachments near the waterbody.
Why it matters
This case underscores the legal efforts to protect urban water bodies from encroachment and pollution in India.
An Advocate Commissioner appointed by the Madras High Court (HC) inspected Singanallur lake in Coimbatore on Friday (August 21, 2026) as part of proceedings on a petition challenging developmental activities in and around the waterbody.
S.J. Mohamed Sathik, who was appointed by the court to conduct the inspection and submit a report, began the exercise at 9.35 a.m. and inspected the lake and its surroundings for more than three hours. Officials from the Coimbatore Corporation, Revenue Department, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and Forest Department, besides volunteers, accompanied him.
The inspection covered alleged encroachments, the lake’s biodiversity and the water quality. Mr. Sathik directed that water samples be tested to assess the water quality. He is expected to place his findings before the High Court in a report, following which further proceedings will be taken up.
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