'PMK will go to any extent to stop coal mining in TN'

CHENNAI: Warning that PMK will go to any extent to stop new lignite mining projects in Cuddalore district, party president Anbumani Ramadoss said that the entire district will be obliterated if 66,000 acres are mined.

"At a time when the existing NLC mines and its extension pose threat to the district, the Central government is trying to implement two mining projects for 66,000 acres. This will destroy the district," he warned in a statement.

He added that the land to be acquired for expansion of NLC is 25,000 acres. For the new mining projects near Sethiathoppu, and Veeranam and Palayamkottai, the government will acquire 21,000 acres and 45,000 acres respectively.

"Since the commencement of NLC, as much as 37,256 acres has been mined over 66 years. Due to the mining, Cuddalore district has become unlivable. The central government also acceded in the Parliament that Cuddalore district is affected due to mining. Due to mining on 37,256 acres, the entire district is destroyed, what will happen if mining is done for 91,000 acres?" he asked.

He alleged that the State government is indifferent to the issue as it gives permission to conduct surveys to find out coal deposits without concern about the livelihood of farmers.

While urging the State government to change its stand on mining projects, Anbumani said that he is protesting against the project since he realised the impacts. "The government should take a policy decision not to give away land and start political and legal actions to expel NLC from the State," he urged.