Home / Environment / Quarry Hearing Erupts in Chaos Amidst Farmer Protests
Quarry Hearing Erupts in Chaos Amidst Farmer Protests
23 Sep
Summary
- Farmers oppose quarry, citing water channel encroachment and agriculture damage.
- Residents highlight buffer zone violations and public health risks from dust.
- Activists allege manipulated data in the Environmental Impact Assessment report.
A public hearing concerning a proposed rough stone and gravel quarry in Thenpazhanji village was marked by intense chaos on Wednesday. Farmers and environmental activists vehemently opposed the project, citing significant environmental concerns and procedural flaws. They argued that existing quarries have already damaged local water channels, severely impacting the Thenpazhanji tank and surrounding agricultural lands.
Residents highlighted that approved residential areas, temples, and water bodies are situated within the mandatory 300-meter buffer zone, violating established norms. Furthermore, concerns were raised about the dangers posed by heavy, uncovered trucks on rural roads and the pervasive dust pollution threatening public health. Activist Selvaraj alleged that the Environmental Impact Assessment report contained manipulated data regarding noise levels and missing statutory reports.
Supporters of the quarry raised demands for employment opportunities, accusing opponents of being outsiders. However, environmental movements urged the Madurai District Collector to scrap the hearing and reject the permit, citing severe ecological damage and procedural irregularities. They referenced past issues highlighted by former IAS officer U. Sagayam regarding quarry damages in the Melur area and called for an end to new quarry permissions.
