Kottar Catholic Youth Movement Stands in Solidarity with Thomaiyarpuram Fishing Community

Tuticorin, March 8, 2026: In a gesture of solidarity with coastal communities struggling for their livelihood, the Tamil Nadu Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of the Kottar Diocese conducted a field study visit to Thomaiyarpuram village in the Thoothukudi Diocese, where fishermen have been protesting against severe coastal erosion.

The visit, organised as part of a Lenten pilgrimage, brought together 46 youth members, including the diocesan director Fr. Simon, along with the movement’s coordinator and field workers. The group interacted directly with residents to listen to their concerns and understand the challenges faced by the fishing community.

According to local villagers, Thomaiyarpuram has been experiencing alarming coastal erosion along its shoreline. In response, the residents have been staging continuous protests since January 18. Their agitation intensified with a hunger strike unto death that began on February 26, demanding the construction of a groyne (locally known as thoondil valaivu) to protect the coastline.

Villagers allege that the long groyne structures built in neighbouring areas to safeguard the nearby nuclear power plant have contributed to the erosion affecting their settlement. They also expressed frustration over the government’s rejection of their demand, reportedly citing the small number of families living in the village as a reason for inaction.

During the visit, members of the youth movement also observed conditions around the nuclear power plant area. They noted that the discharge of heated water into the sea is believed to be affecting marine life and damaging fishery resources, further threatening the livelihood of local fishermen.

Seeking to raise wider awareness about the situation, the youth movement released a video on social media on March 2 highlighting the villagers’ struggle and the environmental and economic challenges they face.

Amid sustained protests by the people of Thomaiyarpuram and the support extended by various groups, the government has now reportedly agreed to address the community’s demands.

Reaffirming their commitment to social justice, the Kottar Catholic Youth Movement stated that it will continue to stand with communities whose voices often go unheard and support their efforts to secure dignity and livelihood.

By Ron Abishek

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