Thoothukudi Rallies for Sterlite's Revival: A Green Copper Comeback?

In Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, a mass signature campaign is advocating for the reopening of the Sterlite Copper plant, shut down in 2018 over environmental concerns. The campaign, led by the Sterlite Action Council, aims to address environmental issues through a green copper initiative to revive local livelihoods.

A grassroots movement has emerged in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district as locals rally behind the reopening of the Sterlite Copper plant. This initiative, organized by the Sterlite Action Council, highlights significant economic disruptions since the plant's 2018 closure, petitioning for a revival under a new 'green copper' framework.

The Sterlite Copper plant, operated by Vedanta, was shut down based on environmental concerns raised by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board. In response, Vedanta has proposed a cleaner, eco-friendly operation model, allowing them to push forward with reconsideration from judicial authorities.

Key local figures, including S. Murugan and Evlin Victoria, stress that reopening must be contingent on commitments to community welfare and eco-friendly operations. Supporters argue that the green copper model addresses previous environmental issues while promising economic rejuvenation.

(With inputs from agencies.)