Farmers in Gobichettipalayam taluk have urged the State government to take steps to prevent industrial pollution in River Bhavani.
Addressing the media in Gobichettipalayam on Thursday, after meeting MLA K.A. Sengottaiyan, president of the Thadapalli–Arakkankottai–Bhavani Nadhi Pasana Vivasayigal Sangam Subi Thalapathi said that the Bhavani, the second-largest river in the State after River Cauvery, provided 70,000 tmc ft of water to farmers, residents, and wildlife. However, in the recent years, large industries have been discharging effluents into the river. “If this situation continues, the water will soon become unfit for consumption,” he warned.
Mr. Thalapathi emphasised the need to protect the river, stating that the association had taken up the issue seriously. He pointed out that a textile processing plant had obtained government consent to establish a facility near Kodiveri Dam. According to existing regulations, such plants must be located at least five km from rivers, canals, and other water bodies. However, the proposed plant is situated less than one kilometre from the dam, he said.
Mr. Thalapathi added that the issue had been brought to the attention of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and the Minister concerned, requesting the cancellation of the consent for operation. He noted that Mr. Sengottaiyan had also raised the issue in the State Assembly, following which the government has temporarily halted the licence and formed a committee to decide the next course of action.
Published - April 11, 2025 05:55 pm IST
