Sterlite Copper today said its factory in Tuticorin district is currently non-functional and the company is awaiting approval from the authorities to resume operations at the site.


At least 9 people were killed, according to PTI (news agency ANI puts the figure at 11, while TV channels puts the number between 10 and 12) in police firing in Tuticorin yesterday after protests for the closure of the plant over pollution concerns turned violent. Sterlite said the facility has been shut since March 27 when the company took up annual scheduled maintenance.


The firm's application to renew its licence to operate the copper smelter facility was rejected by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board. Expressing sorrow at the loss of lives, Sterlite in a statement said it has appealed to the government to ensure safety of employees, facilities and the surrounding communities.


"The Sterlite Copper plant is currently non-operational as we await approval for the consent to operate," it said.


The three month-long protest by locals demanding closure of Sterlite Copper unit of Vedanta Group turned violent yesterday with agitators pelting stones and toppling police vehicles after they were prevented from marching towards the plant. -- PTI


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