Koothattukulam: Residents of Thirumaradi panchayat are anxious after learning that as many as seven new quarries may come up in the Mannathoor hills, all within a four-kilometre radius. Adding to their worry, three of these quarries are proposed at Mandalam Mala — the very site identified in the Water Authority’s DPR for constructing a water tank under the Jal Jeevan Mission. If the quarry starts operation, the tank project cannot proceed, as the proposed sites lie barely 300–600 metres from the quarry zones.

Although the ruling samiti has approved funds to acquire land for the tank, progress has stalled because the Revenue B order is yet to be issued — a delay that locals allege is caused by the influence of the quarry lobby. New quarry sites have also been identified at Adukuzhi, Navolimattam, Kuttathinal and Eettappalli.

At Adukuzhi, preparations to begin quarrying are already underway following a court order. The area is close to the Kudukkapara and Thattekad check dams and the MVIP canal bridge, prompting concerns that quarry blasts could weaken these structures. This region had also been earmarked by the panchayat for a major tourism initiative. Meanwhile, quarry operations at Mandalam Mala and Eettappilli remain halted following strong public protests.

Tourism Under Threat
The proposed quarry expansion poses a significant threat to the Areekkal tourism circuit. The scenic Areekkal waterfall- which draws thousands of visitors each year- originates in the Mannathoor hills. According to unofficial figures, the Pambakuda panchayat earned nearly ₹1.5 crore last year from around three lakh tourists who visited the waterfall. Locals fear that unchecked quarrying could irreparably damage the hill terrain and wipe out the area’s tourism potential.

Why the people are worried

• Local residents and people of the panchayat expressed the following concerns when reports appeared that seven new quarries may be opened in Mannathoor. 
• Millions of litres of water are accumulated in the quarries that currently function here. This water bomb poses a threat to the safety of the people. 
• Chemicals like silica that are used in quarries get mixed in wells, ponds and streams, causing severe diseases including cancer. 
• The dust and smog rising from the quarries cause extensive air pollution
• The cracks formed on the earth’s surface due to constant friction may lead to draught.