Kerala Quarrying Risks Disaster Amid Rains

Concerns are mounting over extensive granite quarrying in Kerala's Thamarassery village, particularly in its upland areas. Residents and environmental activists fear that ongoing, unregulated mining activities, especially during a period of intense rainfall and weather alerts, could precipitate a major ecological disaster.

Locals in Koodaranhi panchayat report that quarrying is occurring in ecologically sensitive regions, where large-scale excavation has significantly altered the natural landscape. They express grave worries that heavy rainfall could exacerbate the situation, heightening the risks of landslides, soil erosion, and flash floods.

Environmental groups have also voiced apprehension, highlighting that unchecked quarrying in hilly terrains has already led to substantial ecological damage in the district. They emphasize the severe threat posed to nearby settlements and agricultural lands by the fragile terrain.

Despite repeated submissions of complaints to local administrators and government departments detailing alleged violations, residents claim no effective action has been taken by the Revenue or Geology departments to halt these operations. A retired village official stressed the need for regular monitoring of quarrying in hilly areas to prevent tragedies, advocating for a precautionary approach based on lessons from past natural disasters.

Residents are calling for enforcement of regulations and proactive measures to avert potential rain-related incidents. There is a pressing need for a scientific approach to ensure quarry operators are held accountable and cooperate in mitigating safety threats. The district administration and mining authorities have not yet provided a detailed statement regarding these complaints, though a senior Revenue official indicated that the District Collector is expected to convene a meeting soon to address the issue with local representatives.