The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Monday ordered notice to the State government on the public interest litigation petition that sought a direction to preserve and protect Onankaradu/Perumal Malai in Peraiyur in Madurai district and restrain stone quarry operations.
A Division Bench of Justices P. Velmurugan and K.K. Ramakrishnan was hearing the petition filed by Nammalvar Eyarkkai Pathukapu Sangam represented by its president G. Pethanan of Peraiyur in Madurai district.
The petitioner said the hill has considerable ecological and biodiversity significance. During field study and documentation undertaken by persons associated with the association, 47 different species of birds were observed and documented.
He said the importance of the hill was not confined to its ecological and hydrological significance. Various features of potential historical and archaeological significance had been noticed.
Among the materials reported and documented were ancient stone remains, structural remains, carved stones/sculptures, inscription-like markings, an ancient smelting furnace, burial urns/Muthumakkal Thazhis pottery, nadukal and other artefacts, he said.
Water resources connected with the hill were utilised by the local people for drinking and agricultural purposes. The surrounding agricultural lands depended substantially on the availability of groundwater and surface water replenished through the natural catchment of the hill, he said.
The petitioner said the hill was a common natural resource serving multiple villages. Its protection was a matter of public importance. He sought a direction to authorities to preserve and protect Onankaradu/Perumal Malai and restrain stone quarry operations. The court adjourned the hearing in the case by four weeks.
Published – October 05, 2026 08:56 pm IST
