Bhavani River Protection Committee protests industrial pollution issues

Members of the Bhavani River Protection Committee held a demonstration in Bhavanisagar on Monday. They are raising awareness about pollution in the Bhavani River, which is vital for many people in four districts. Former MLA P.L. Sundaram led the protest. Initially, the group planned to go on a hunger strike in front of the Public Works Department. However, after discussions with officials on March 22, they chose to hold a demonstration instead. The Bhavani River, which starts in the Nilgiris and stretches 216 km, is a key water source for drinking and farming in Coimbatore and Erode. Protesters expressed concern over industrial waste being dumped into the river, causing prolonged water contamination. They noted that drinking this polluted water has caused health problems for both people and livestock. The committee criticized local authorities for not taking action to resolve the issue. Formed in 2023, the movement represents the voices of thousands of people who are calling for immediate measures to tackle industrial pollution in the river.