The decision by the Irrigation Department to impose buffer zones around 61 dams, including the Peruvannamoozhi Dam in Kozhikode district, is a severe injustice to the residents of the hilly regions. KCYM-SMYM Thamarassery Diocese has declared its firm opposition to this move, which places thousands of farmers in Chakkittapara and Koorachund panchayats under a renewed cloud of uncertainty and fear.

This controversial decision will disproportionately impact the people living around the Peruvannamoozhi Dam reservoir, particularly in Peruvannamoozhi, Kakkayam, Kariyathumpara, and Kallanode parishes. It will also devastate many areas in the two panchayats, forcing countless families—many of whom rely on tourism for their livelihood—into a state of helplessness.

The department’s justification for restricting construction within 120 meters of the reservoir appears to be a thinly veiled attempt to turn these inhabited hills into forest lands. This policy threatens to push back the progress of hardworking hill communities, forcing them into an era of deprivation and underdevelopment, despite their years of toil and investment in building a better future on this land.

KCYM Thamarassery Diocese President Richard John Pantaplakkal reaffirmed his solidarity with the hill people in their fight against what he called a "black law." He was joined by Director Fr. Jobin Thekkekkaramattathil, General Secretary Albin Kakkanatt, Animator C. Roseen SABS, Vice Presidents Tresa Mary Joseph and Bonnie Sunny, along with other key office bearers, in strongly condemning the move and pledging to resist it.