Tamil Nadu MLA Urges Action Against Illegal Quarrying in Madurai Villages
Deputy leader of the opposition and Thirumangalam MLA, R B Udhayakumar, has formally called upon the Madurai district administration to take immediate and decisive action against illegal quarrying operations in several villages within Kalligudi taluk. In a strongly worded representation submitted to the Madurai district collector on Tuesday, Udhayakumar highlighted the severe and escalating environmental and social crises caused by these unauthorized activities.
Widespread Illegal Operations Identified
In his detailed letter, the MLA specifically named multiple villages where illegal quarries are reportedly functioning without proper authorization. These include:
- Kallanai
- Nedungulam
- Chinna Ulagani
- Periya Ulagani
- Thoombakulam Pudur
- Achankulam
Udhayakumar emphasized that the rampant and excessive use of explosives in these quarries is causing significant disruption to local agricultural activities. The vibrations and debris from blasting operations are damaging crops and soil fertility, directly threatening the primary livelihood of villagers in this agrarian region.
Encroachment and Safety Threats
The situation has reached a critical point with reports of blatant encroachment. The pond in Kallanai village has been completely taken over for quarry operations, severely impacting local water resources essential for both farming and daily life.
Perhaps most alarmingly, the MLA raised grave concerns about student safety. Students from these villages are forced to travel to school along pathways that run directly alongside these active and dangerous quarry sites. The uncontrolled use of explosives poses a constant and unacceptable risk to the children's lives during their daily commute.
Failed Protests and Unfulfilled Promises
Frustrated by the inaction, local villagers have been staging continuous protests, demanding that authorities intervene to stop the illegal and excessive mineral extraction. Their pleas aim to safeguard both their agricultural lands and their community's well-being.
Udhayakumar revealed that he has personally submitted several representations to district administration officials throughout 2025, seeking appropriate legal and administrative action. Despite receiving assurances from officials that steps would be taken, no concrete measures have been implemented on the ground to curb these activities.
An Urgent Call for Intervention
In light of this persistent inaction, the MLA's latest appeal to the district collector is a final, urgent demand. He has called for immediate steps to:
- Prevent all illegal and excessive extraction of minerals in the identified villages.
- Protect the region's natural mineral wealth from plunder.
- Safeguard the livelihood and safety of the villagers, whose agriculture and daily lives are under siege.
The ball is now in the court of the Madurai district administration. The community and their elected representative await a response that translates promises into tangible action to resolve this growing crisis.
