Thu Feb 06 18:49:16 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Farmers Protest Proposed Quarry Near Water Source
**Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, February 7, 2025** – Farmers in Alancheri village, Uthiramerur taluk, are protesting the proposed opening of a blue metal quarry near their vital irrigation tank. The 12-acre plot earmarked for the quarry lies between the tank and the Kunnavakkam hillock, impacting the water supply for approximately 150 Dalit farming families cultivating 150 acres of land.
Farmers claim the land was illegally sold to a private party. They fear the quarry will contaminate the water source, which is also used for drinking, due to potential chemical runoff from previous illegal quarrying activities on the hillock. They cite existing deep holes dug on the site as evidence and demand water testing.
J.S. Jayakumar, a local farmer, highlighted a previous court battle to halt illegal quarrying on the hillock, stressing the ongoing threat to their livelihoods. T. Tamilselvan added that water already shows signs of contamination, forcing them to filter it for drinking.
Kancheepuram Collector Kalaiselvi Mohan has acknowledged receiving the farmers’ petition and promised to investigate the matter. The situation remains tense as farmers await a response and a resolution to protect their water source and agricultural lands.
First Piper 