Repair of damaged saltpans gets under way in Thoothukudi

Production is likely to start in February, says association

With the northeast monsoon that pounded the district this year has relented finally, salt manufacturers have started repairing the saltpans damaged by the downpour with the hope of starting the new season by February.

Over 30,000 workers are involved in salt manufacturing on 20,000 acres in Vembar, Vaeppalodai, Tharuvaikulam, Ayyanarpuram, Muthaiahpuram, Mullakkaadu and Arumuganeri to annually produce over 25 lakh tonnes of salt. After actively producing salt for six months between April and September, production comes to a grinding halt in October once the northeast monsoon starts.