The power supply to the Sterlite Copper Smelter plant in Tamil Nadu's Thuthukkudi has been suspended. 13 people, protesting against the plant, have been killed since Tuesday in police firing. The decision to suspend the power was taken following the orders of the State Pollution Control Board. The board had instructed its Joint Chief Environmental Engineer, Tirunelveli to conduct an inspection of the plant, and the power suspension orders were issued on the basis of his report.

Day-to-day life continues to be affected in the district. Shops are still closed on the third consecutive day. Buses and auto rickshaws are also not plying. Two petrol bombs were hurled early this morning at a police station in Muthaiahpuram locality.

Following continued reports of petrol bomb attacks and arson in Thuthukkudi, three groups of police have been formed under DIG level officials to bring the situation under control today.

District collector and Superintendent of Police of the district have been transferred in connection with the incident. New District Collector Sandeep Nandoori has assured that normalcy will be restored within a day or two. Newly-appointed SP Murali Rambha said, further steps will be taken in consultations with higher authorities.

Internet services in Thuthukudi and neighbouring districts of Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli have also been temporarily suspended.

Earlier, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court had stayed the expansion of the plant. It also asked the Central Government to provide details about the approval given for extension activities of the industry.

The plant has been long-opposed by the local residents for polluting the environment as well as causing a range of health problems.

Meanwhile Home Minister Rajnath Singh has sought a report from the state government over the loss of lives during the agitation at Tuticorin. He has appealed to the people in Tuticorin to remain calm and maintain peace and tranquility in the region.

Mr Singh said, the Prime Minister has expressed his concern about the situation and is pained by the loss of lives.