As the United Democratic Front (UDF) government assumes power, the crisis-ridden tea plantation sector in Peerumade hills of Idukki is expecting an emergency intervention to ensure the future of the century-old industry.

According to plantation sector leaders, three major tea estates, Peerumade Tea Company, Kottamala MMJ Estate, and MMJ Bonami Estate, in Peerumade remain closed. Furthermore, salaries and other benefits remain outstanding in several companies, including POABS, as many estates are facing a survival crisis.

‘Dire situation’

Kerala Plantation Workers Union (INTUC) general secretary Shaji Pynadathu said the plantation sector in Peerumade is facing a dire situation and desperately needs government support to recover.

“Workers are not receiving timely wages, retirement benefits, medical allowances, and other perks,” he said. “Many cluster homes (Layams) are in very poor condition, with no repair work being conducted for many years. Other plantations, including Haileyburia, are also facing a major crisis.”

Central Travancore Planters Association (CTPA) president R. Samraj said the association would submit a fresh memorandum to the newly elected government to address the ongoing issues. “During the term of every government, we submit memorandums, and the authorities approve some of our demands,” he said.

‘Comprehensive package’

Peerumedu MLA-elect Cyriac Thomas emphasised that a comprehensive package is required to restore the struggling sector.

“Reopening tea plantations that have been closed for years is not an easy task. However, we must ensure the security of plantation workers. The backlog of salaries and perks is a serious issue on several estates. My main priority is to address these grievances, and the government would soon intervene to find a solution,” said Mr. Thomas.

Many owners argued that they cannot run the estates solely by relying on income generated from tea.

“Allowing product diversification and tourism initiatives in the plantations are the only viable way to resolve this crisis. We expect a swift government intervention to address these challenges,” said a source.