Tiruppur farmers have stalled the Bharat Petroleum IDPL project, demanding ₹2 lakh per cent compensation and the return of earmarked land.

  • Farmers demand ₹2 lakh per cent for agricultural land.
  • Protest sites include Sikkaripuram and Ponparappi.
  • Demands include returning 40 feet of the 60-foot earmarked land.
  • The dispute is linked to the ongoing Cauvery water conflict.

In a significant escalation, farmers in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu prevented Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) from proceeding with its Irugur-Devangonthi Pipeline (IDPL) project for the second day on Tuesday. The protests were concentrated at two key locations: Sikkaripuram near Veeracholapuram and Ponparappi near Olapalayam.

The core of the dispute lies in the terms of land acquisition. The protesting farmers are demanding a compensation rate of ₹2 lakh per cent of farmland. Furthermore, they are insisting that once the pipeline is laid, 40 feet of the 60 feet of land currently earmarked for the project must be returned to them for agricultural use.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this standoff highlights the growing tension between large-scale industrial energy projects and the socio-economic security of local agrarian communities. The friction is exacerbated by regional political sentiments regarding interstate resources.

The farmers' resentment is deeply rooted in historical land devaluation caused by previous pipeline installations.

Adding a political dimension to the protest, Easan Murugesan, founder of the Tamil Nadu Farmers’ Protection Association, pointed out the irony of the situation. He stated that since Karnataka is refusing to release Tamil Nadu’s share of Cauvery water, farmers see no reason to facilitate a pipeline that ultimately benefits the destination state.

The farmers also cited historical grievances. They noted that after the first 74 km pipeline from Irugur to Muthur was laid three decades ago, the market value of their land plummeted, making it difficult for them to secure agricultural loans from nationalized banks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is the capacity of the IDPL project?
Answer: The project has the capacity to transport 3.5 million metric tonnes of refined fuels annually.

Question 2: Why are farmers angry about the land usage?
Answer: They want 40 feet of the 60-foot strip returned to them after construction to maintain their livelihood.

Did You Know?: The IDPL project is designed to be a massive artery for refined fuel, capable of moving millions of tonnes of fuel every year.