May 15, 2025

An entire year has passed since the residents of Pottalurani village commenced their intense opposition to the operation of fish processing units near their village. Despite their continuous efforts on this issue, the villagers allege that their grievances have been overlooked by the authorities. The people of Pottalurani village are striving hard to shutdown the three fish processing units situated near their village, which emits a pungent stench during fish processing, causing widespread environmental pollution and severe discomfort across the village. These units have been operating for almost five years and sustained opposition against these units kicked off exactly a year ago, leading the people even to boycott the 2024 parliamentary elections. Over the past few years, the villagers have also filed complaints with relevant government authorities and have staged various forms of protest including daily and monthly gatherings; however, they have yet to see any resolution. In line with this, the 365th day of the ongoing protest was marked by a public gathering in the village on Wednesday (May 14, 2025). E. Sankaranarayanan, a government school teacher from the village, said that it was high time the fish processing units were closed as the fumes emitted by these plants cause foul odour, making it difficult for the residents to stay in their homes. The fumes have led to various health problems including respiratory problems, nausea and other ailments. “I was working in Nadukallur government school and was transferred to Tiruvannamalai district last July. I have been in my village for the past 10 months on loss of pay, with the sole aim of helping to shut down these fish processing units for the sake of villagers who have nowhere else to relocate,” he added. He mentioned that though these processing units have reduced their production in day time and lessened the contamination of freshwater ponds, the villagers are still struggling with the foul smell. Speaking to The Hindu, C. Shanmugaiah, MLA of Ottapidaram constituency, said that, based on the grievances of villagers, measures have been taken in accordance with the guidelines of Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board. He added that reports have been submitted, suggesting that the units were operating as per the prescribed forms. “If the protestors want to see the report, we are ready to show them the findings,” he noted. Published - May 15, 2025 06:45 pm IST

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Tags: Protest, Fish processing, Pollution, Health, Government,