Locals oppose proposed sand quarry on Kollidam

After receiving information about the sand quarry plan, they gathered on the banks of the Kollidam in Vilangudi and launched an indefinite hunger strike. 

They said that the Public Works Department (PWD) officials had proposed a sand quarry at survey number 1-A, Block 1 of Kollidam. When such an attempt was made earlier, the residents opposed the move and expressed fears that setting up a quarry would seriously take a toll on the ground water potential and the flood carrying capacity of the river. They said the attempt was dropped then. 

They also pointed out the banks of Kollidam within 500 metres of the proposed quarry was weak and prone to a breach. A retaining wall has also been constructed along the banks. 

While the pumping stations for the supply of water to Thanjavur, Perambalur and Ariyalur towns were located nearby and the setting up of a quarry would adversely affect the supply to these towns as well.On information, Latha, Tahsildar of Tiruvaiyaru, Anbalagan, DSP and PWD officials reached the spot and held talks with the protesters. 

They assured that the sand quarry would not be set up and asked the agitators to come for talks with the district collector. Following this, the hunger strike was withdrawn.