Ramayi V. stands under a casuarina tree that is dangerously tilting towards her house in Chinna Kottaimedu fishing village, Thandavankulam panchayat, Sirkazhi taluk.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
A cluster of 40 fishing families in the small hamlet of Chinna Kottaimedu, nestled in the Thandavankulam panchayat of Sirkazhi taluk in Mayiladuthurai district, face a precarious and persistent challenge — a constant threat of trees looming over their houses.The families of dwellers have been living in the hamlet for over eight decades, with many holding pattas issued years ago. Yet, due to the area’s classification as forestland, they are barred from felling trees, building compound walls, or constructing permanent structures. “Even if a tree stands in the middle of our living room, we’re told we can’t touch it,” says Mahalingam M., a long-time resident who has filed multiple petitions with the district administration.“We pay house tax and hold pattas, yet we live like encroachers. Our families have grown, but the next generation cannot get pattas. Even building a safety wall is considered a violation by the Forest department,” he laments.
A neem tree looms close to a house at Chinna Kottaimedu village, Thandavankulam panchayat.
