Murder of Environmentalist: Statewide Protests Planned by TN Activists Against Illegal Mining
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Federation of Environmental Activists of Tamil Nadu is organizing multiple protests statewide to demand protection for activists opposing illegal mining, following the murder of K. Jagaber Ali, who raised concerns over illegal stone quarrying.
Key Takeaways
- Activists demand government action against illegal mining.
- K. Jagaber Ali's murder has instigated protests.
- Activists seek ₹1 crore compensation for Ali's family.
- Drone technology is being employed in mining surveillance.
- 12,000 quarries operate within Tamil Nadu.
Chennai, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Federation of Environmental Activists of Tamil Nadu has declared a series of demonstrations statewide, urging for the safeguarding of green activists who advocate against illegal mining operations.
This initiative follows the reported murder of K. Jagaber Ali, an environmental activist who had raised concerns about extensive illegal stone quarrying in the Thirumayam region.
Ali was tragically killed by a tipper lorry on the Vengalur-K. Pallivasal road on January 17.
Up to now, five individuals have been apprehended regarding the incident, which is under investigation by the Crime Branch.
Ali’s demise has triggered alarm within the environmental activist community, many of whom now feel threatened due to intimidation from illegal miners.
In light of this, activists have called upon the Tamil Nadu government to take control of all stone quarries in the state, positing that this could yield at least ₹1 lakh crore in revenue.
Currently, the state generates an annual mining revenue of merely ₹1,835 crore, based on government statistics.
It’s estimated that Tamil Nadu has around 12,000 stone quarries, permitted to mine up to 60 feet deep.
Following Ali’s death, the Federation of Environmental Activists convened with his family and demanded a compensation of ₹1 crore for them.
Additionally, the activists have organized a protest in Thirumayam on February 16, pressing the Pudukkottai district administration to enforce strict measures against illegal stone quarries in the vicinity.
N. Shanmugham, the coordinator of the movement against illegal stone quarrying, informed media representatives that activists will visit the site where Ali lost his life to inspect the quarry.
A report based on their observations will be submitted to the government for further action.
Shanmugham stressed that activists risk their lives to protect the environment and notify authorities, yet government officials frequently fail to act promptly. He noted that protests will persist in hopes of compelling authorities to respond.
It’s significant to mention that on September 19, 2024, the Federation of Environmental Activists protested in Chennai, condemning the negligence of the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA).
To combat illegal mining, the Tamil Nadu government has integrated drone technology, a mining surveillance system, and an online mineral management system.
Officials have indicated that drones are being utilized to assess the volume and scope of mines and quarries.
As of now, drone surveys have been carried out in about 200 quarries, with the process still ongoing.
Moreover, the state’s Environmental Department has enlisted 23 agencies to execute a Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) survey of existing mines to confirm leased areas.
The DGPS survey has already been completed in 1,132 mines throughout Tamil Nadu.
aal/rad
