Activists claim power plant in Thoothukudi has resumed construction despite suspension orders

THOOTHUKUDI: Despite a suspension order, a private power plant proposed at the VOC Port Estate in Thoothukudi has allegedly been continuing with construction work. Environmentalists and residents now blame the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) for its alleged inaction.

SEPC Power Private Limited has been constructing a coal-fired thermal power plant, with 1×525 MW capacity, near Mullakadu. On June 23, the TNPCB member secretary suspended the construction work – till plant authorities obtain a mandated amendment in the Environment Clearance (EC) – over allegations of violations, including obtaining the EC using an “invalid term of reference” and failing to hold a public hearing for building the ash pond and the 10.93-ha coal crushing unit. The 262.6-acre ash pond is located in Vadakku Karaseri, within 5-km of the Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary.