Tungsten mining project will not happen without T.N. government’s nod: Thirumavalavan

The residents of Melur in Madurai district need not worry about the implementation of tungsten mining project in the region as the Tamil Nadu government’s approval is essential for taking the proposal forward, said Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan. 

The residents of Melur in Madurai district need not worry about the implementation of tungsten mining project in the region as the Tamil Nadu government’s approval is essential for taking the proposal forward, said Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan. 

He was speaking at a demonstration staged against the Union government’s proposed tungsten mining project, at Melur on Friday (January 10, 2025).

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has given an assurance, through the passing of a resolution in the State Assembly, that the project will not be implemented in the region, he added. 

Moreover, all other political parties in the State, including AIADMK and BJP, have shown their support to the people’s opposition, he noted. “The issue is seen by the people as their own problem. This shows their interest in protecting the environment,” Mr. Thirumavalavan said.  

He further observed that the amendment made to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, 1957, was a mistake and went against the rights of the State. “When the mining of minerals like gold and silver is essential for the growth of a nation, it should also be ensured that the public is not affected by such projects,” he added.  

While other projects like quarry mining would affect the environment by causing pollution, tungsten mining would release toxic substances, which might be harmful to all living beings, he noted. These toxic substances are learned to cause diseases in people living in nearby areas, he added.