Pachamalai Hill Conservation Demonstration

A demonstration advocating for the protection of Pachamalai hill was held by the Environment Awareness and Protection Association (EaPa) on June 30, 2025. This area is recognized as a crucial catchment zone and plays a significant role in the natural hydrology of the region.

Key highlights of the event include:

• Location: The demonstration took place near Pachamalai hill, situated behind the Tambaram Sanatorium in Chennai.

• Significance of Pachamalai: The hill is noted for its ecological diversity and is home to various wildlife species. S. Mohan, the head of EaPa, emphasized the importance of maintaining the natural water flow to surrounding lakes, which could be disrupted by quarrying activities.

• Concern Regarding Quarrying: The extraction of stones from Pachamalai for quarrying poses a threat to the natural ecosystem, as it would hinder the replenishment of nearby lakes.

• Public Participation: The event saw a large turnout, with hundreds of participants voicing their support for environmental conservation and raising awareness about reducing plastic waste in urban areas.

• Notable Attendees: Among the attendees were T.K. Rangarajan, a former Member of Rajya Sabha, and Dr. S. Kasi, a pediatric surgeon, and urologist. R. Thirumoorthy, an advocate at the Madras High Court, was also present, showing a coalition of professionals concerned about the environment.

• Campaign Goals: The demonstration aimed not only to protect Pachamalai from urban development but also to highlight the broader issues of environmental degradation and waste management in Tamil Nadu.

In conclusion, the event reflects a growing community concern for ecological preservation in the face of urbanization, emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices that protect vital natural resources.