Residents protest soil mining in Pozhikkavukunnu over safety concerns

Residents in Pozhikkavukunnu, Kozhikode, are protesting soil mining for National Highway 66 construction. They claim authorities have ignored their concerns, leading to heightened tensions as trucks, escorted by police, attempted to collect soil despite local opposition. On January 10, a protest committee blocked trucks from leaving the area. In response, Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran suspended soil mining for two days. This follows accusations against a geologist for submitting conflicting reports about the mining's safety and environmental impact. Local residents remain distrustful of authorities, citing unfulfilled promises. A second geologist has been appointed for a joint investigation, but disagreements persist between the two experts. The community continues to monitor the situation closely.