PALAKKAD: The public agitation against the Mampara granite quarry operating in Pirayiri panchayat is gaining momentum. As the local residents' protest against the quarry crosses 40 days, the situation escalated to a point where locals themselves intercepted stone-laden vehicles to inspect their transit passes. Residents were forced to take matters into their own hands after authorities failed to act on complaints regarding illegal stone transport.

Quarry makes daily life miserable

Leaders of the action committee—Sunaina Teacher, Hakeem S., and Chandran K.C.—stated that blasting operations at the quarry, located in a residential area, have already caused cracks in over 50 houses in the vicinity. Water Authority inspections have revealed cracks in the slab of a 22.5 lakh-litre capacity water tank nearing completion right next to the quarry. The local 110 kV electrical line is also on the verge of collapse.

Stone transport using fake passes

Numerous loads leave the quarry daily using the same transit pass. With tipper lorries operating over 300 trips daily, the government is also suffering massive revenue losses. An inspection by the police, who arrived to curb illegal stone transport, had earlier found that stones were being smuggled using fake passes. However, Geology Department officials merely included minor irregularities in their report.

Collectorate siege on 16th

Protesting against the quarry's operations that have made people's lives unbearable and the supportive stance of government officials, the action committee has decided to lay siege to the District Collectorate on the 16th of this month. Prominent lawyer John John is leading the protest.