Tamil Nadu Extends Land Permit for Atomic Mining in Kanyakumari Amid Environmental Concerns
The Tamil Nadu government has extended the land allocation permit granted to Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) for an atomic mineral mining project in the Kanyakumari district by one year. The permit covers 1,144 hectares in the region.
The decision has drawn criticism from the Communist Party of India (CPI), which has accused the government of backtracking on its electoral promises to protect natural resources. In a statement, CPI state secretary M. Veerapandian argued that the extension provides IREL an opportunity to obtain environmental clearances and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) permits, potentially endangering the coastal environment, groundwater, agriculture, and livelihoods of fishermen.
Veerapandian urged the government to withdraw the government order (G.O.) extending the land allocation permit, stating that the ruling party had committed to safeguarding Tamil Nadu's natural resources during the election campaign.
Indian Rare Earths Limited is a public sector undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy, involved in mining and processing of mineral sands containing rare earth elements and thorium. The project has been a subject of controversy due to its potential environmental impact on the ecologically sensitive coastal region.
The extension comes as the company seeks to secure necessary regulatory approvals to proceed with mining activities. The government has not yet issued a formal response to the allegations.
