Scrap methane project, Vaiko appeals to TN govt

Flagging environment concerns, MDMK General Secretary Vaiko today appealed to the state Government not to allow the controversial methane extraction project in Cauvery delta and accused the Centre of encouraging efforts inimical to Tamil Nadu's interests.
If the project to extract Methane was allowed, it would pose a serious threat to the environment, including drinking water sources and livelihood options of the common man, he told reporters here today.
Stating that methane gas extraction had been banned in New York, he wanted the government to reject the project.
"I appeal to the state government not to proceed with the project," he said.

The project was initiated during the previous DMK regime with the government inking a Memorandum of Understanding with Great Eastern Energy Corporation in 2011 for exploration and production of Coal bed Methane in Cauvery delta districts.
However, following stiff opposition, it was put on hold.

The MDMK chief termed the methane project and proposals by Karnataka and Kerala to build new dams as very dangerous to the interests of Tamil Nadu especially the region covering Cauvery Delta.
"A danger bigger than such projects is not going to come for Tamil Nadu. Such efforts are being encouraged by NDA regime at the Centre," charged Vaiko, who had recently quit the ruling alliance.

Even Union Minister Arun Jaitley had mentioned that the Centre would accelerate Methane projects, he added.
Vaiko said he would convene a meet on January 20 at Thanjavur to deliberate such threats to Tamil Nadu.
"I have formed a forum, the Cauvery Rights Protection Movement, I will be the coordinator. I will invite political parties and farmers to participate in the meet and share their views," he said.
Vaiko, a strong votary of prohibition, said marathons will be organised throughout the year across the state to bring awareness about the evils of liquor consumption especially among young people and to urge the state to bring prohibition, he added.