Saltpan workers stage protest at Mullakadu in Thoothukudi on Saturday.
| Photo Credit: N. RAJESH
:Salt producers, workmen and fishers staged a protest at Mullakadu near Thoothukudi on Saturday opposing the state government’s move to acquire lands for the proposed shipping yard project.According to the protestors, the government is taking steps to acquire lands in Mullakadu, Kovalam, Pazhayakayal and surrounding areas for the project, which they claimed would destroy salt pans and affect the livelihoods of those dependent on salt production and fishing.The protest was attended by office-bearers of the Kovalam Pasuvantharai Thanpaadu Siriya Alavu Uppu Urpathiyalar Sangam salt producers’ association, including secretary Sekar, president Mandhiramoorthy along with other functionaries. CITU district secretary Pechimuthu and other functionaries of CITU was also present at the protest.The protestors appealed to the State government to hold talks with the affected stakeholders and arrive at an amicable solution. They express concern that thousands of workers would lose their livelihoods if the land acquisition went ahead.Stating that they were not opposed to industrial development, the protestors said that the proposed shipbuilding yard should be established at an alternative location without affecting the region’s traditional salt industry. They urged the government to protect the livelihood of salt producers, labourers and fishermen while pursuing development projects. Published - August 01, 2026 09:45 pm IST
