Chennai, July 28: PMK President Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss has welcomed the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to impose a three-month ban on the transport of black stone, gravel, M-sand, and other mineral materials used in construction to neighboring states. He urged the government to make this ban permanent to prevent illegal mining and protect the state’s natural resources.
Recently, the Tamil Nadu government announced a temporary halt on the transport of key mineral materials, including black stone, gravel, M-sand, and other related goods, to other states for a period of three months.
The Department of Geology and Mining stated that this initiative aims to ensure the adequate availability of construction materials for infrastructure and housing projects in Tamil Nadu. Additionally, it seeks to safeguard the state’s mineral resources and prevent their over-exploitation.
In response to this decision, Anbumani described the government’s action as a timely and necessary measure. He emphasized that it would aid in protecting Tamil Nadu’s environment and natural resources.
He argued that a temporary ban alone would not suffice to address significant issues such as illegal mining and the unlawful transport of materials to other states. The PMK leader alleged that large quantities of mineral materials were being sent to Kerala from the districts of Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Coimbatore.
Anbumani claimed that illegal mining and smuggling reached alarming levels during the previous DMK government, with the support of influential political figures.
He noted that immediately after the TVK government took office, he had urged the administration to take stringent measures against the illegal transport of minerals.
He accused the state’s mining minister of inspecting several mines and issuing directives for enforcement, yet illegal mining and smuggling persisted.
He explained that the ban on the transport of mineral resources was implemented due to road widening work on the National Highway connecting Tamil Nadu and Kerala. However, smugglers found alternative routes, allowing illegal trade to continue.
Referencing his statement from July 22, Anbumani reiterated his demand for an immediate and complete ban on the export of mineral resources from Tamil Nadu. He stressed that this step was particularly crucial as the state was grappling with a shortage of construction materials.
He acknowledged that the government’s recent order had alleviated some of these concerns. However, he insisted that a comprehensive ban, along with strict action against illegal mining and transport, is essential for the proper protection of Tamil Nadu’s mineral resources and to mitigate environmental damage.
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