Ash dumped along Thanjavur bypass causes hardship to motorists and farmers

Ash dumped along Vallam – Thiruvaiyaru State Highway near Ammanpettai has been causing inconvenience to motorists and residents over the past three days, as fine particles disperse in the wind and settle across the road.

The ash, suspected to be from the modern rice mill operated by Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC) in Thanjavur, has been transported in lorries and offloaded along the bypass stretch near Palliagraharam and Vallam. Residents estimate that more than 50 tonnes of ash have been dumped at multiple points along the roadside.

As vehicles pass, the fine black particles become airborne and blow into the eyes of two-wheeler riders and pedestrians. Motorists also complained of skidding on the loose ash scattered across the road surface. The ash, a byproduct of parboiled rice mills, typically contains high amounts of fine silica, unburnt carbon and trace mineral oxides. The lightweight particles become easily airborne, causing eye irritation for motorists, while loose deposits on the road create slippery patches that increase the risk of accidents.

Farmers expressed concern that continuous dumping could choke the irrigation channels running along both sides of the highway, potentially obstructing water flow to cultivated fields.

When contacted, officials of Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation said the matter would be examined and appropriate action taken.