Residents oppose land acquisition in Thoothukudi district

Residents in Thoothukudi district are protesting against land acquisition for state and central projects. Villagers in Vembur oppose the SIPCOT project, fearing it will harm their grazing lands and livelihoods, as 1,000 acres of farmland are set to be acquired. In the southern part of the district, communities near Udangudi are against a space park project by the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation. They worry about losing farmland essential for cattle fodder and the production of high-quality palm nectar. Authorities have not yet begun land acquisition. A special officer has been assigned to the project, and officials have been directed to assess land fertility before proceeding. Residents seek alternative sites that do not disrupt their livelihoods.