Preventing damage to environment and people from actions of large industries in
​Tamil Nadu

Programme for Social Action, Tamil Nadu

AID partner Programme for Social Action works to prevent adverse impacts on people and environment from actions of private industries and state enterprises. Two examples of adverse impact on environment and people in Tamil Nadu from actions of large corporations are:
​Mercury poisoning of land, water, and people from a thermometer factory by Hindustan Unilever in Kodaikanal, and Encroachment on Ennore Creek by large industries, resulting into flooding of the creek. 

Strategy

• Bring to light the adverse effect on communities and the environment due to not-so-well planned activities by led corporate forces and state enterprises
• Spread awareness on the negative implications of activities led by corporations that have detrimental effects on the local communities and the environment
• Empower the affected communities by providing them with information around scientific, technical and legal aspects
• Provide legal support to help force the proponents of the illicit activities provide compensation to the affected communities and compensate for the damages to the environment

Impact

• PSA's efforts in Ennore prevented the Tamil Nadu State Electricity board from encroaching on the creek, thus preventing widespread flooding and property destruction during monsoon
• 591 families affected by mercury poisoning have received compensation ranging from a few thousands (USD) to tens of thousands (USD) through the help of PSA campaigners over several years