Mass signature drive launched for revival of Sterlite copper plant in Tamil Nadu

A mass signature campaign has been launched across Thoothukudi district in Tamil Nadu, with local communities voicing support for the reopening of the Sterlite Copper plant , shut down in 2018 due to environmental concerns. The campaign is being led by the Sterlite Action Council , comprising local workers, transporters, fisherfolk, and small traders. The petition will be submitted to the state and central governments and other stakeholders.

Supporters of the campaign cite six years of economic distress since the closure, particularly affecting families dependent on industrial activity and related services. S Murugan , joint secretary of the Tuticorin District Lorry Association, said, “The shutdown caused crippling hardship for hundreds of transporters and workers in the logistics and ancillary ecosystem. While public fears initially sparked protests, the real issue later became broken assurances and a lack of communication.”

Fisherfolk leaders have also voiced conditional support. Evlin Victoria , secretary of the Sinthiyathinai Fishermen Community, said, “Our support is based on a framework that protects coastal livelihoods. Reopening must go hand in hand with sustained welfare towards education, healthcare, and community development for fishing families.” Robert Villavarayar , another fishermen community leader, emphasised a three-pronged approach: securing livelihoods through periodic fishing kits, promoting well-being via local education and healthcare, and providing direct financial assistance for coastal development.

The campaign advocates reopening under a “green copper” framework , which promises cleaner technology, lower emissions, and resource efficiency, aiming to address past environmental concerns while reviving the local economy.

The Madras High Court recently allowed Vedanta Ltd , the plant’s owner, to file a fresh application for its green copper plant proposal. A hearing originally scheduled for January 29, 2026 , has been adjourned to February 5, 2026 .

Supporters stress that reopening must be accompanied by firm commitments , including direct local employment, robust CSR initiatives, and safeguards for environmental and coastal health . Analysts say that if implemented responsibly, reopening the plant could revive livelihoods, restore regional economic activity, and provide a model for balancing industrial development with environmental sustainability.

The campaign reflects the continued struggle in Thoothukudi , where residents hope for a responsible revival of the plant after six years of disruption, balancing both economic needs and ecological protection.