Villagers picket distillery protesting discharge of effluents

Puducherry,Oct 14(UNI) Tension prevailed at Katterikuppam near here as the people from nine villages nearby picketed a private distillery.

Alleging that the distillery has been drawing ground water beyond the permitted quantity and cultivable lands in the area were being affected due to the discharge of effluents from the distilery, a 2000 strong mob gathered in front of the unit and picketed it, demanding it's closure.

Eventhough police held talks with them, they refused to disperse and demanded that the concerned officals should visit their village and hold talks with them. However, police managed to persuade them to disperse later when they promised to get in touch with the officals and find an amicable settlement to their problem.

Police pickets have been posted in front of the distillery to prevent any untoward incidents.

UNI PAB VV 1714