Farmers strongly condemn the construction of a check dam across the Chinnar River near Amaravathi Dam in Udumalai, citing threats to their livelihood and water sources.
Coimbatore: Tensions rise in Udumalai as the Tamil Nadu Farmers Protection Association vehemently opposes the ongoing construction of a check dam across the Chinnar River, which feeds the Amaravathi Dam. The dam is crucial for the irrigation of approximately 55,000 acres and sustains over 120 drinking water projects in Tiruppur and Karur districts.
The construction, which farmers claim blocks smaller rivers, poses severe threats to their livelihood by potentially disrupting the ecosystem and water availability.
Despite assurances from the Public Works Department (PWD) claiming minimal impact—only one TMC of water being utilized—the locals are skeptical. Statements from the PWD reportedly faced criticism for not seeking opinions from both new and established agricultural communities in the area. Allegations also surfaced regarding illegal construction activities and a lack of proper authorization from forestry and environmental departments, heightening concerns over procedural oversights.
Farmers have warned that if the construction of the dam isn't halted, they will escalate their protests, including a complete blockade of transportation of vegetables and meat from Tamil Nadu to Kerala via Udumalai. This action could significantly impact regional trade. The Tamil Nadu Farmers Protection Association demands an immediate cessation of the dam construction, stressing the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the environmental and social impacts.
The construction, which farmers claim blocks smaller rivers, poses severe threats to their livelihood by potentially disrupting the ecosystem and water availability.
Despite assurances from the Public Works Department (PWD) claiming minimal impact—only one TMC of water being utilized—the locals are skeptical. Statements from the PWD reportedly faced criticism for not seeking opinions from both new and established agricultural communities in the area. Allegations also surfaced regarding illegal construction activities and a lack of proper authorization from forestry and environmental departments, heightening concerns over procedural oversights.
Farmers have warned that if the construction of the dam isn't halted, they will escalate their protests, including a complete blockade of transportation of vegetables and meat from Tamil Nadu to Kerala via Udumalai. This action could significantly impact regional trade. The Tamil Nadu Farmers Protection Association demands an immediate cessation of the dam construction, stressing the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the environmental and social impacts.