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DHARMAPURI: More than 50 tribal families in Manjakudumbu village near Hogenakkal have urged the Dharmapuri district administration to stop dumping and burning waste near their houses, alleging that smoke and odour are causing them breathing difficulties and sleeplessness. The village has more than 100 residents, including women and children. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Chennai | Silver Rate in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai | Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Petrol Price in Chennai | Diesel Price in Chennai | CNG Price in Chennai | LPG Price in Chennai Stay updated with the latest Chennai news.
The villagers said plastic and other waste collected from Hogenakkal were dumped and burnt close to their settlement. Residents said thick smoke engulfed the area whenever the waste was burnt, causing them breathing difficulties. “Children are frequently falling ill and being taken to the nearby govt primary health centre for treatment,” said M Gomathi, a resident.
Many families were allotted housing sites by the forest department, but several continue to live in thatched huts. Residents fear sparks from the burning waste could set the huts on fire. They alleged that drinking water supplies were inadequate and that the water was often greenish and foul-smelling. Social activist K Jeevanandan called for immediate govt intervention, proper waste management, clean drinking water and basic amenities. Villagers warned that they might be forced to return to forest areas inhabited by their ancestors if the situation continued. Download the TOI App.