There is growing concern over exploitation of mineral resources by brick kiln owners. Rangaraj, a resident of Chinna Thadagam, has petitioned District Collector K Rajamani seeking action against the plundering of mineral resources in the Thadagam area.

He alleges that his life is under threat from brick manufacturers and no action was being taken by authorities to curb this plunder of mineral wealth.

“This is not the first time I’m here to submit a petition to the District Collector. I’ve already submitted one earlier. And, now I’m here because I’m being regularly threatened by the brick manufacturers for exposing their act,” he told mediapersons here.

In his petition submitted earlier, he had said that in the region of Chinnathadagam, Veerapandi, Somayampalayam and Pannimadai panchayat areas, the lives of as many as 40,000 people had been affected. Smoke from the kilns caused health issues to residents in the vicinity

Further, over the last 20 years brick kiln business had seen a rise in profit in these areas, and 4000 loads of bricks are made daily for which earth is dug up to 50-60 ft deep.

He added that he had made several complaints to the Tamil Nadu Geology and Mines department, though in vain.

He urged the Collector to initiate quick action and save the lives of local people.