Southern Command launches operation for safe disposal of unexploded ordnance in Tamil Nadu

A press statement from the Southern Command on Tuesday said, “Troops of Southern Command, Pune have launched ‘Operation Thiruvallur’ in continuance of their efforts to contribute directly towards security and wellbeing of people. The operation is being undertaken under the aegis of ‘Aid to Civil Authorities,’ involving the safe disposal of nearly 10 tonnes of unexploded ordnance which had possibly been collected inadvertently by some factories over a number of years located in the general area of SIPCOT Industrial Estate in Gummidipoondi in Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu.”

Officials said it is an intricate and complex effort involving many weeks of detailed planning and coordination with civil authorities. “The operation is a classic demonstration of joint coordination and planning between the Army and Tamil Nadu state government, on whose request the operation has been specifically approved by the Ministry of Defence. The aim of the operation is to ensure a safe environment for all citizens in and around Gummidipoondi,” the statement said.

The operation involves segregation and disposal of unexploded ordnance from a metal scrap dump, now covered with undergrowth. The dump had been left unattended after a violent blast and consequent death of a factory worker a few years ago.