New road to Chennai opposed

The All India Kisan Maha Sabha has criticised district authorities’ move to execute ‘green corridor’ project between Salem and Chennai at an outlay of ₹ 10,000 crore.

In a petition, the sabha said that the the eight-lane road project will destroy fertile lands, farms and natural resources affecting the livelihood of farmers.

Four-lane roads were already available from Salem to Chennai via Attur and Villupuram, via Krishnagiri, and via Harur and Vellore. And hence, there was no need for another road, the petition said.

The Centre was planning to execute the green corridor project for the benefit of corporate houses.

Ayyanthurai, convener of the sabha, told reporters here that farmers were already suffering because of drought-like conditions prevailing in the State. The State Government, unmindful of the sufferings, was helping the Centre.

He said that the farmers will not allow the execution of the project. Both the Union and State Governments should understand the plight of the farmers and drop the move, he said.