Villagers demand permanent closure of illegal stone quarry near Melur, cite environmental, ecological threats
Villagers near Melur are protesting the continued operation of an illegal stone quarry, citing environmental degradation and threats to local wildlife. Despite a temporary closure order, residents allege that operations have continued covertly and that activists are facing intimidation.
Why it matters
The conflict illustrates the challenges of enforcing environmental regulations against illegal mining operations that impact local biodiversity and community safety.
Residents of several villages near Melur have stepped up their agitation, demanding the permanent closure of an illegal stone quarry operating at the foothills of Aruvimalai in Kachirayanpatti panchayat.
A petition was submitted to the Madurai District Collector on Wednesday, seeking comprehensive action against the stone quarry situated in K. Pudur, with villagers and environmental activists calling for the total revocation of its licence.
The controversy centred on allegations that the quarry has been functioning in violation of the Tamil Nadu Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1959.
Jeeva, a resident of Kesampatti village, said the quarry operations had severely impacted vital local waterbodies and streams — including Karuppayurani, Aruvi Kulam and Velluthu Neerurthu — as well as endangered local agriculture, registered homes, roads, rock beds, archaeological stone inscriptions and places of worship.
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