Environmental Clearance (EC) revoked for residential project 'Brigade Morgan Heights' located in Perumbakkam Village, Chennai
Revocation ordered by State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA)
Revocation order issued on May 12, 2026
SEIAA meeting to discuss cancellation convened on May 8, 2026
Project Background and Land Status
Project site consists of private patta lands classified as dry lands ("punjai") in revenue records dating back to 1935
Land has been in continuous possession of current landowners since 1985
Brigade entered into Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Landowner in 2022
Public notices issued at time of JDA signing and EC securing in leading newspapers
No objections received during public notice period
Legal and Regulatory Context
Madras High Court dismissed Public Interest Litigation against project on February 10, 2026
PIL heard over 5-month period with SEIAA and Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority (TNSWA) as parties
Court concluded project lands could not be conclusively designated as wetlands until ground truthing completed in Ramsar process
Environment, Climate Change and Forest Department press release dated October 28, 2025 clarified lands are private patta lands and approvals were given on private patta lands only
Final wetland boundaries remain undecided according to department release
Basis for Revocation
SEIAA cited generic condition appearing in all ECs requiring "project proponent shall obtain permission from the Wetland Authority if applicable"
Brigade contends condition not applicable as project lands are private patta lands and no authorities have declared them conclusively as wetlands
Procedural Issues
Brigade Group not provided with prior notice, personal hearing, technical discussion, or site verification
No opportunity given to submit documentary evidence or be heard
Revocation occurred after bona fide commencement of project activities
Substantial investments have been made
Construction is ongoing
Third-party rights have been created
Broader Impact
Proposed Ramsar site and Zone of Influence covers more than 11,000 acres in South Chennai
Other projects and private landowners similarly impacted
Affects general public, property owners, developers & builders
Impacts development of entire South Chennai region
Company Response
Brigade strongly objects to revocation, calling it legally unsustainable, factually incorrect, and arbitrary
Company claims revocation violates principles of natural justice
Brigade is appealing against the order
Exploring all appropriate legal and regulatory remedies available
