Social activists protest against the construction of a park on the Thamiravarunni River, demanding a ban from the Collector.
Tirunelveli: A controversy has erupted over a proposed park construction project on the Thamiravarunni River in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. A social activist has submitted a complaint to the District Collector, opposing the project. The complaint states that the project, which alters the river’s natural appearance, could be detrimental to the environment.
On Monday, a public hearing was held at the Tirunelveli District Collector’s office, chaired by Collector Anand Mohan. During the meeting, social activist Krishnakumar, a resident of Meenakshipuram, arrived with a child wearing a shirt soaked in sewage. In this symbolic gesture, Krishnakumar attempted to draw the administration’s attention to the problem of sewage and river pollution in the city.
He then submitted a memorandum to the Collector, demanding an immediate halt to the park construction project on the Thamiravarunni River. He stated that the Thamiravarunni River is not just a tourist destination, but also supports the lives of millions of people. The river provides drinking water to a large number of people and also meets the irrigation needs of agriculture in the surrounding areas.
In his complaint, Krishnakumar stated that large-scale concrete construction along the riverbank could permanently alter the river’s natural structure. This could negatively impact the river’s water flow, biodiversity, and environmental balance. He urged the administration to conduct a detailed environmental impact study before any construction work begins.
He alleged that the Tirunelveli Corporation is planning to build a park on the Thamiravaruuni River at a cost of approximately ₹59 crore. He stated that developing a natural resource like the river solely as a recreational destination is inappropriate. He stated that the river’s protection and conservation should be prioritized.
In his memorandum, the social activist demanded that the project be immediately halted and that efforts be made to focus on river conservation instead. He stated that if any such project is pursued in the future, the input of local people, environmental experts, and relevant departments should be taken into account.
They also demanded that an Environmental Impact Assessment be conducted and all necessary legal approvals be obtained before starting the project. They stated that initiating projects involving natural resources without adequate research and public participation could be detrimental in the long run.
The Thamiravarunni River is considered one of Tamil Nadu’s most important rivers. It is a major water source for Tirunelveli and surrounding areas. Locals have long demanded conservation and pollution control of the river. Concerns about sewage and other pollutants in the river have also been raised from time to time.
Krishnakumar’s protest at the Collector’s office, using his child as a vehicle, is being seen as an attempt to highlight this issue. He argues that development is necessary, but development should not harm natural resources for future generations.
The district administration’s response is now awaited. It will be important to see what steps the administration takes to address environmental concerns surrounding the proposed park project and whether the project is reviewed. The eyes of local people and environmental activists are now fixed on the next decision of the administration.
