An all-party meeting, led by Agriculture Minister P Prasad, is scheduled for November 16 to address the escalating dispute over soil mining at Mattappally village near Nooranad in Alappuzha. Concerns about environmental impacts intensify as residents vehemently protest the sand mining.
“The minister directed the district collector to convene the all-party meeting on November 16 at the Mavelikkara Taluk office. He will also visit the hill and the mining site,” stated an official.
Tensions flared in Mattapally village on Friday as residents clashed with police during a protest against soil mining. Over 100 arrests were made as police resorted to baton charges, attempting to disperse the crowd.
“We released all arrested on bail. Over 200 rioting cases are registered. Protests continue, and we are taking measures to prevent further escalation,” explained a senior police officer.
Accusations surfaced of police using excessive force, even against women protestors. T T Jismon, AIYF State Secretary, demanded action against officers involved.
The state government and a High Court single Bench have approved mining on the Mattappally hill for National Highway construction. However, residents challenge this decision, citing potential environmental consequences leading to a severe drought situation. Awaiting a response to their petition, the locals emphasize the profound impact on the local environment.
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