A plea was made to the district administration to desist from renewing permission for the 22 quarries operating in the Sathyamangalam-Anthiyur belt, at the farmers’ grievances redress meeting here on Friday.
Higher intensity of explosions at the quarries carried out by the licensees in violation of norms have the potential to disturb wild life.
Explosives that were permissible only in mines were blasted in the quarries, said Subi Thalapathi, a functionary of the Thadapalli-Arakankottai Ayacut Farmers’ Association.
Tenure
For most of the 22 quarries in the belt, the tenure of license ends in March, Mr. Thalapathi said, wondering how permission was granted for a quarry that started operating earlier this month at T.N. Palayam.
District Collector S. Prabakar said that the license given to quarries in dam and forest areas will be thoroughly scrutinised.
As for the quarry at T.N. Palayam, the licensee had obtained environment clearance one-and-a-half years ago, he said.
Mr. Thalapathy sought stringent action against private sellers of urea for profiteering, by selling a bag for Rs. 350 against the specified rate of Rs. 271.
To complaints of pest attacks on papaya, coconut, mulberry, and tapioca crops, a representative of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University said the incidence at the affected fields will be studied for further action.
Mr. Prabakar censured Highways Department officials, faulting their absence at the meeting, when farmers raised complaints about damage caused to outlets of irrigation canals passing under the roads maintained by the department.
An explanation would be sought from the Highways officials, the Collector said.
