Thoothukudi fishermen oppose coal jetty plan

The agitated fisher folks got down to shore waters of Alanthalai and formed a human chain to register their protest against the project. Besides, black flags were put up on fishing boats to show the solidarity in the protest.

According to SJ Gayes, president, Thoothukudi District Country Boats Association, said, “Construction of coal jetty at Kallamozhi coastal hamlet at about eight kilometres would adversely affect livelihoods of fishermen, who solely rely on the sea. Coal, the key requirement for power generation, could possibly spill on sea waters while being carried on ship, and ultimately cause destruction to marine biodiversity.”

Further he added that, “Fish was the only source of livelihood for fishermen and if the sea wealth was lost, survival of fishermen would be at risk. Hence, the project should be scrapped.”

Moreover, he said there was no public hearing conducted to take up this project. “While power generation methods were progressing towards modernisation through installation of solar power panels and windmills, which are considered clean energy, why should this conventional method of thermal power project allowed?” he questioned.

Besides, many local fishermen had been demanding construction of groynes in shore waters to safeguard boats from damages during high tide. The agitating fishermen also sought the government to allot sufficient funds and take up construction of groynes at Alanthalai at the earliest. Around 2,000 fishermen had been relying on this coast with the aid of around 150 country boats, sources added.