Case Study of Local Water Conflict: Plachimada, India

Question 1

Why was there conflict?

Answer 1

6 months after opening of Hindustan Coca-Cola factory:

• Wells empty/water table decrease > difficulty accessing domestic and agricultural supplies > economic loss
• Decline in groundwater quality (excess magnesium and calcium) > health issues
• Cadmium sludge from plants dumped > skin infections

Question 2

What evidence is there of conflict?

Answer 2

• 2002: protests begin. Anti coca-cola peoples struggle committee
• 2003: Perumatty Panchayat revoke Coca-cola’s license
• Coca Cola approaches Kerala high court which sides against the Panchayat
• 2003-2005: legal battles continue

Question 3

What was the outcome of the conflict?

Answer 3

Nov 2005: Plachimada declared ‘over-exploited’ preventing further commercial extraction under Kerala Groundwater Act
Jan 2006: Coca Cola begins relocation