TN govt on plea to seal operations in Kallikudi villages reaches Madurai Bench
TN govt on plea to seal illegal stone quarries and crushers operating in Kallikudi taluk has come under judicial scrutiny, with the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court issuing notices to multiple state authorities. The court has sought responses from the geology and mining department, the home department, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and the Madurai district collector.
The notice was issued following a public interest litigation filed by a local resident, who alleged large-scale illegal quarrying activities in and around Kallanai and nearby villages. The petitioner raised concerns about environmental damage, safety risks, and harm to agricultural livelihoods caused by unregulated quarry operations.
TN govt on plea to seal quarries accused of violating mining rules
The petitioner stated that several blue metal quarries and stone crushers are functioning without valid leases or continue operations even after lease periods have expired. According to the plea, these units are excavating beyond permitted depths and operating without mandatory environmental clearances.
The petition further alleged that quarry operators are using high-intensity explosives in a careless manner. These blasts reportedly send rock fragments far beyond quarry limits, damaging nearby farmlands and posing serious risks to agricultural workers employed in the area.
Residents living close to the quarry zones have reportedly faced repeated disruptions, including vibration damage to structures and fear of injuries during blasting operations. The petitioner argued that such activities violate mining safety norms and environmental protection laws.
TN govt on plea to seal highlights Gundar River damage
A major concern raised in the petition relates to the Gundar River, which serves as a crucial water source for farmers in Kallikudi and surrounding villages. The petitioner claimed that illegal quarrying has damaged river channels and weakened river banks, affecting the natural flow of water.
According to the plea, quarry waste, stone dust, sludge, and slurry are being dumped into the river and its adjoining areas. This has allegedly reduced the river’s carrying capacity, leading to water stagnation and flooding of nearby agricultural lands during seasonal flow.
Farmers dependent on the Gundar River for irrigation have reportedly suffered crop losses due to blocked channels and altered water movement. The petition stated that these actions are in violation of environmental safeguards and pollution control norms meant to protect water bodies. Also Read: Vilamarathur Water Scheme Issue Rekindles Debate Over Protest Cases in TN 2026
TN govt on plea to seal seeks inspection and immediate action
The petitioner urged the High Court to direct authorities to conduct inspections of all quarry and crusher units operating in the region. He sought orders to seal units found functioning illegally and take action against operators violating lease conditions and environmental regulations.
The plea also requested enforcement of statutory safeguards to prevent further damage to agricultural land and water resources. It highlighted the need for accountability from regulatory bodies tasked with monitoring mining and pollution control.
A division bench comprising Justices G Jayachandran and K K Ramakrishnan issued notices to the concerned departments and adjourned the case for further hearing. The court noted that similar concerns had been raised earlier and recalled that a detailed report had been sought in a related matter earlier this year.
TN govt on plea to seal adds pressure on enforcement agencies
The case has brought renewed attention to quarrying practices in rural parts of Madurai district, where local residents have repeatedly complained about unchecked mining activities. Environmental groups and farmer associations have often pointed out gaps in monitoring and enforcement at the ground level.
With the court now seeking formal responses from government departments, the matter is expected to test how effectively existing mining and environmental laws are being implemented in the region.
Conclusion
The notice issued in the TN govt on plea to seal illegal quarries signals judicial concern over environmental damage and public safety in Kallikudi taluk. The next hearing is likely to determine whether regulatory authorities acted adequately or if stricter action will be ordered to protect farmlands and the Gundar River.
