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River Turns to Foam: Farmers Protest Pollution
21 Jul
Summary
- Farmers protested pollution in the Thenpennai River on Tuesday.
- Untreated sewage from Karnataka created foam in Kelavarapalli Dam.
- Over 500 protesters petitioned for state government intervention.

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the All India Kisan Sabha organized a protest rally against the severe pollution of the River Thenpennai. The river, which flows from Karnataka, has been contaminated by untreated sewage dumped from Karnataka, causing the waters of Kelavarapalli Dam to become foamy.
Farmers have been witnessing this pollution for over a month. The All India Kisan Sabha, a CPI(M) affiliated association, led the demonstration from Siddhanapalli to Kelavarapalli Dam. They are demanding that the Tamil Nadu government intervene and pressure the Karnataka government to halt the dumping of effluent.
The pollution's impact extends to six districts downstream, affecting aquatic life, groundwater, and drinking water sources. Over 500 protesters submitted a petition to the Sub Collector's office, urging action and the enforcement of National Green Tribunal orders to maintain water quality.