Archive · 21 Aug 2026
Ramanathapuram Villagers Protest Alleged PWD Land Encroachment
Villagers in Ithampadal held a protest on a main road.
They believe a private company has taken over land belonging to the Public Works Department.
They also say deep farm ponds were built in an important water-collection area.
The villagers worry this could reduce water available in the future.
They say the ponds are about 30 feet deep.
Around 300 people, including 100 women, joined the roadblock.
The villagers said they had already sent several complaints to the district administration.
They want any agreement with the company investigated and cancelled if necessary.
They also want action against officials and others involved.
Villagers alleged that a private company encroached on Public Works Department land at Ithampadal.
They said farm ponds about 30 feet deep threaten the Kanmai water catchment area and future water supplies.
Residents claimed the PWD Department violated irrigation rules by constructing the ponds.
About 300 people, including 100 women, blocked traffic at Ithampadal junction on Thursday.
The protesters demanded an investigation into any private-company agreement and action against those responsible.
- Who
- About 300 Ithampadal villagers, including 100 women.
- What
- They staged a roadblock protest over alleged PWD land encroachment and construction of deep farm ponds.
- When
- Thursday.
- Where
- Ithampadal junction on the Rameswaram-Kanyakumari East Coast Road, in Kadaladi taluk of Ramanathapuram district.
- Why
- They alleged violations of irrigation rules and feared damage to the Kanmai water catchment area and future water supply.
- Location
- Ithampadal, Kadaladi taluk, Ramanathapuram district
- Protest site
- Ithampadal junction on the Rameswaram-Kanyakumari East Coast Road
- Protesters
- About 300 people, including 100 women
- Allegation
- A private company allegedly encroached on Public Works Department land
- Construction concern
- Farm ponds reportedly built about 30 feet deep
- Main fear
- Threat to the Kanmai water catchment area and future water supply
- Demand
- Investigation and possible cancellation of any private-company agreement, along with action against those involved