Express News Service
TIRUVANNAMALAI: Members of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam on Monday demanded the state government to arrange a meeting with farmers before acquiring their lands for the proposed eight lane green corridor project in a protest opposite the district collector office Tiruvannamalai.
More than 500 DMK members, supporters and farmers, members of farmers' associations took part in the protest. They raised slogans opposing the state government's move to destroy the Kavuthi and Vedhiyappan Mountains. They also demanded the state government to pay heed to public's opinion with regard to the Chennai Salem express project.
"It was an unacceptable move by the government that has failed to abide by the law to acquire lands for the project." Speaking at the protest, E V Velu said, "Road infrastructure is needed. But, the state government should think of expanding the road between Uthiramedu and Vandavasi, from Vandavasi to Tiruvannamalai. Also, expand the road from Tiruvannamalai to Aroor via Thannipadi and Thandrampet."
The protesters condemned the arrests of thousands of people who voiced against the project and also condemned the state government's action to expedite the project. Farmers strongly condemned the move by the state government as it had taken authoritative steps to acquire lands from farmers in the district.
Farm lands that are under acquisition for the project could be taken from more than 80 villages in Polur, Vandavasi, Chetpet, Chengam, Kalasapakkam, Tiruvannamalai and Cheyyar taluks. However, the state government has not informed any farmers in these taluks about the project and they are marking spots by erecting stones and small pillars in the farm lands without the knowledge of farmers.
