Erode groups plan hunger strike for River Bhavani

Members of various political parties and social welfare organisations are planning a hunger strike in Erode district on March 24. They want the State government and the Public Works Department (PWD) to take action to stop pollution in the River Bhavani. The announcement came after a meeting of the Bhavani River Protection Committee, held in Sathyamangalam. This group includes political party leaders, farmers, and other local stakeholders. The meeting was led by former Bhavanisagar MLA P.L. Sundaram. The River Bhavani is a vital water source for people in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, and Karur districts, and it is important for agriculture and livestock. The committee members highlighted concerns about industrial waste polluting the river, which has caused health problems for residents. In 2023, the committee held a major protest that temporarily reduced pollution levels. However, they report that in recent months the river's water has changed color and now has a foul smell again. To further raise awareness, a three-day campaign will be held in Bhavanisagar and Sathyamangalam leading up to the hunger strike. S.C. Natraj, the convenor of the movement, attended the meeting alongside other members.