Killai Becomes Tamil Nadu’s First Climate-Resilient Village

Key facts

• Killai in Cuddalore district has been developed as Tamil Nadu's first fully operational Climate Resilient Village (CRV) under the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission (TNCCM).
• The project was executed at a cost of ₹230.15 lakh using District Climate Change Mission (DCCM) and Corporate Environmental Responsibility (CER) funds.
• A 3-km stretch of the Buckingham Canal was desilted to improve tidal water exchange, enhance mangrove restoration, and reduce plastic accumulation.
• Hybrid solar power systems were installed at the Pichavaram Boat House and government buildings, including the Panchayat office and community centre, along with cool-roof interventions.
• A solar-powered electric boat was introduced for emission-free, low-noise eco-tourism in the Pichavaram mangrove creeks.
• The initiative includes a Green School programme to promote environmental education, tree planting, waste management, and biodiversity conservation among students.
• The project addresses multiple climate vulnerabilities such as cyclones, sea-level rise, saline intrusion, coastal erosion, and biodiversity loss through ecosystem restoration and community-led action.