TVK Government Won't Allow Projects Harming Environment or Fishermen's Livelihood: Minister Rajeev Tells Assembly

The Tamil Nadu Assembly took up a special attention motion on August 18 over the environmental impact of hydrocarbon development wells proposed by Hindustan Oil Exploration Company (HOEC) at Parangipettai in the Cuddalore region.

MLA Thamimun Ansari urged the government to reject HOEC's proposal to establish new wells in the area, noting that local residents had been continuously protesting against the drilling of four additional wells, citing the possible impact on fishermen's livelihoods and the marine environment.

Responding, Minister Rajeev told the House that three wells had already been permitted during the previous DMK regime and one more during the AIADMK regime, and that HOEC had submitted a fresh proposal to the Coastal Zone Management Authority on June 1.

The Minister said the TVK government would not permit projects that adversely affect fisheries or the environment, stating, "We will take action without compromising on protecting the livelihood of fishermen."