Redefining the borders of Nagapattinam, by creating Mayiladuthurai as a separate district, was among the pertinent demands put forth by the people at the monthly farmers' grievances meeting held here at the Collectorate on Friday.
Closure of small units, including a paper mill, in and around Mayiladuthurai; the long distance to Nagapattinam from Kollidam, which makes it inaccessible for people and administration; and the perceived 'neglect' of Mayiladuthurai, were the reasons placed forth for the demand for a separate district.
A demand was made for conduct of the weekly grievance meeting at Mayiladuthurai. The closure of the Thirumalairajanar bridge for heavy vehicles, has restricted the people of Mayiladuthurai from participating in the weekly grievances meet.
Farmers sought distribution of saplings and seeds by the horticultural department. A.Alexander, a resident of Mayiladuthurai, requested an additional harvester for hire for the Mayiladuthurai area from the Agricultural Engineering Department , as the single harvester currently available on hire does not meet the demand.
R.Kodandaraman, member, Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), called for immediate strengthening of Kittiannai culvert of Pudumanai river. According to him, Pudumanai river supports a watershed of over 28,000 acres and its chief drainage channel from Puthur to Pazhayar flows through the culvert. However, the culvert has been damaged due to the tsunami, and the breach of Kollidam river. He demanded that the culvert be strengthened on a priority basis to prevent a breach that could affect the movement of people from Puthur to Pazhayar.
The meeting was presided over by V. Rajendran, District Revenue Officer.
