The Perundurai constituency hosts significant industrial activity, with 254 units, including dyeing, bleaching, and tannery operations, situated within its 2,663-acre SIPCOT estate. This development has contributed to the local economy but has also coincided with environmental challenges, particularly concerning water quality and availability.
Reports indicate that groundwater samples from these areas show Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels exceeding 5,000 mg/l, suggesting a decline in water quality over several decades. Residents and local associations have frequently raised concerns that this affects both drinking water supplies and agricultural practices.
Following community protests, a Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) project, estimated at ₹136.76 crore, has been sanctioned for the SIPCOT area. Despite this, concerns about air quality persist, attributed primarily to the continued widespread use of coal in industrial boilers.
To address water scarcity for domestic use, there have been ongoing demands for an increased supply of protected Cauvery water. Additionally, the Athikadavu–Avinashi Irrigation, Groundwater Recharge and Drinking Water Supply Scheme has contributed to improving groundwater levels by refilling approximately 200 waterbodies in the region.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/tamil-nadu-assembly/industry-thrives-but-pollution-and-water-scarcity-haunt-perundurai-constituency/article70778314.ece
