Quarrying – Madras High Court Seeks Response on Kallanai PIL

Quarrying –  A farmer from Madurai district has moved the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, raising serious concerns over alleged illegal quarrying activities near Kallanai village in Kalligudi taluk. The petition calls for immediate steps to safeguard residents’ lives, protect natural resources, and prevent further damage to agricultural lands in the surrounding villages.

Court Issues Notice to Authorities

The matter came up before a Division Bench comprising Justices G Jayachandran and KK Ramakrishnan. After hearing the initial submissions, the Bench directed the concerned authorities to respond to the public interest litigation filed by R Subramaniyan, a resident of Kallanai. The court’s notice marks the beginning of judicial scrutiny into the claims of unlawful quarry operations in the region.

Subramaniyan’s petition alleges that stone crushing units and blue metal quarries have been functioning in violation of existing laws and regulatory approvals. According to him, several units are either operating without valid lease agreements or continuing operations after their lease periods have expired.

Allegations of Regulatory Violations

The petitioner has claimed that quarry operators have exceeded the permitted depth limits and failed to secure mandatory environmental clearances. He has further contended that these activities are being carried out in disregard of the Tamil Nadu Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1959, the Mines Act, 1952, and other statutory provisions governing mining operations.

In instances where limited permissions were reportedly granted, Subramaniyan alleged that quarrying extended beyond the approved lease boundaries. Such actions, he argued, demonstrate a pattern of non-compliance with established safety and environmental norms.

Environmental and Agricultural Impact

The petition highlights the environmental consequences of the alleged illegal quarrying. It states that extensive excavation has led to noticeable ecological damage, including depletion of groundwater levels and degradation of fertile farmland. Farmers in the affected villages are said to be facing mounting challenges as water resources shrink and soil quality deteriorates.

The petitioner warned that continued excavation in the area could permanently alter the local ecosystem, making cultivation increasingly difficult. Agriculture remains the primary livelihood for many families in the region, and any disruption to land or water resources directly affects their economic stability.

Concerns Over Explosive Use

A major concern raised in the PIL relates to the reported use of high-intensity explosives during quarrying operations. Subramaniyan alleged that blasting is being carried out without strict adherence to safety standards. According to the petition, the force of these explosions has caused large rock fragments to travel well beyond designated quarry zones.

Residents have reportedly expressed fear over the risk posed by such blasting activities. The petitioner stated that flying debris has damaged nearby fields and posed threats to workers and villagers alike. He described the situation as hazardous, with potential risks to both life and property.

Impact on Local Communities

Beyond environmental harm, the petition argues that the alleged violations have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and anxiety among villagers. Continuous blasting, dust pollution, and heavy vehicle movement are said to have disrupted daily life and affected overall well-being.

Subramaniyan has urged the court to intervene and ensure that authorities take prompt action to enforce existing regulations. He seeks measures to halt unlawful quarrying, restore environmental balance, and provide protection to residents living near the affected sites.

The High Court’s direction to issue notice indicates that the matter will be examined in detail in the coming hearings. The response of the state authorities and regulatory bodies is awaited, as the case brings attention to broader issues of environmental compliance and sustainable resource management in mining operations.