Archive · 24 Aug 2026
Seruthur Fishermen End Protest After Assurances On Lodge Wastewater
Fishermen in Seruthur were upset because wastewater from private lodges was flowing into the Vellaiyar river.
They said this was a serious problem and stopped going to sea for six days.
About 3,000 fishermen planned to protest on the road.
Government and police officials spoke with them on Sunday.
The officials promised to discuss a lasting solution with Velankanni town panchayat leaders.
That meeting is planned for September 15.
Health officials will inspect the lodges.
After receiving these promises, the fishermen called off their protest.
Around 3,000 Seruthur fishermen had avoided fishing for six days over lodge wastewater entering the Vellaiyar river.
The fishermen planned a road blockade and demonstration against Velankanni town panchayat authorities and police.
Nagapattinam RDO Sankaranarayanan negotiated with the fishermen on Sunday.
Officials agreed to meet Velankanni town panchayat leaders on September 15 and seek a permanent solution within three months.
Health authorities will inspect lodging houses, while police will expedite action to stop drainage from entering the river.
- Who
- About 3,000 fishermen from Seruthur, along with revenue, health and police officials.
- What
- The fishermen called off a planned road blockade and demonstration after receiving assurances about lodge wastewater entering the Vellaiyar river.
- When
- The protest was called off on Sunday after the fishermen had avoided fishing for six days; a follow-up meeting is planned for September 15.
- Where
- Seruthur hamlet and the Vellaiyar river near Velankanni in Nagapattinam district.
- Why
- The fishermen were protesting drainage water from private lodges flowing into the river.
- Protesting group
- Seruthur fishermen
- Number involved
- About 3,000 fishermen
- Duration of fishing boycott
- Six days
- Pollution concern
- Drainage water from private lodges entering the Vellaiyar river
- Negotiating official
- Nagapattinam RDO Sankaranarayanan
- Planned meeting
- September 15 with the Velankanni town panchayat executive officer and president
- Proposed timeline
- A permanent solution is to be pursued within three months