Residents protested against the new place that was identified for the relocation of a Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation Limited (Tasmac) outlet in Arattavadi village on Wednesday.  

Residents said that the village was home to a Tasmac outlet for many years. They protested after they learnt that efforts were being undertaken to identify land in Arattavadi village for the relocation of a Tasmac outlet from the neighbouring Thanda village. They prevented government officials, including the Tahsildar, from inspecting the proposed land.

On being informed, revenue officials and the police reached the spot and pacified the agitated residents, who dispersed after assurance from revenue officials that relocation of the outlet will not be carried out on the proposed land. 

“The Ariyakunjur main road is a key stretch that connects big towns nearby. Such an outlet will result in traffic congestion, accidents, and inconvenience for road users,” said N. Sarala, a resident. Residents said that commuters from at least 20 surrounding villages come to the identified land to board buses.  

Tasmac officials said that the outlet in Thanda village was closed recently after complaints from residents.