Increased Opposition (April 2025): Local farmers, tribal groups, and environmentalists intensified protests against the Sillahalla Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (SPSHEP), submitting petitions to the Tamil Nadu government.
Project Aim: The SPSHEP aims to generate 1,000 MW of electricity to meet Tamil Nadu’s peak power demand and support renewable energy integration.
Location & Features: Located in the Nilgiris district, the project involves constructing two dams, tunnels, an underground powerhouse, and surface storage points.
Environmental Concerns: The project threatens to submerge farmland and forest land,
affecting approximately 3,000 farmers. Joint land ownership complicates compensation.
Public Response: Local communities have raised concerns regarding environmental impact and the loss of livelihoods.
Spiritual Protest: Residents from affected villages prayed to Lord Murugan, the Nilgiris’ guardian deity, to protect the environment and prevent the project’s implementation.
“Sillahalla Kaavadi”: A special kaavadi was offered to Lord Murugan, symbolizing both cultural faith and environmental concern.
Activist Involvement: Activists like M. Sivalingam (Sillahalla Protection
