Catholics oppose sand mining, wind power mill in Mannar

They allege sand mining and windmill farms pose risks to the wetland, which is home to a bird sanctuary

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(UCAN) People in the Catholic-majority Mannar district continue protests against ilmenite mining and wind power farms, saying these projects threaten their survival and livelihoods.

The protesters, backed by local youth and civil society organizations, have been participating in street protests and rallies denouncing the projects for about ten days in Mannar town.

On Aug. 11, tension erupted after protesters blocked the entry of vehicles transporting heavy machinery and equipment, such as turbine blades for the windmill farm, into the island.

A similar incident occurred in the previous week when villagers stopped a vehicle convoy carrying equipment, forcing police and members of the Special Task Force (STF) to intervene and clear the road at midnight.

Protesters allege that proposed sand mining and windmill farms pose risks to the island's ecology and cultural heritage.