Pottery merchants in Coimbatore struggle with scarce clay supply, affecting their business. They urge the district administration to take action to ensure adequate clay availability.
Coimbatore: The pottery industry in Coimbatore is facing a critical shortage of clay, essential for crafting traditional pots, leading to a steady decline in production. Local pottery merchants, particularly those on Mettupalayam Road, voiced their concerns on April 26, highlighting the increasing popularity of earthenware due to the rising temperatures of summer. Despite the demand, the scarcity of clay hampers production capabilities.
Pottery, known for its cooling properties, has seen a surge in sales. However, artisans are struggling to procure sufficient clay to keep up with the demand. "Every year, our industry dwindles more due to this ongoing issue," mentioned one of the merchants. They stressed that immediate action from the district administration is necessary to address the shortages that are increasingly impacting their livelihood.
In the past, the availability of clay was consistent, but recent years have seen a significant increase in shortages, putting the entire pottery production at risk. "Even with permissions to extract clay, the actual availability on the ground is much less than needed," added another merchant. Continuing this way will lead to a severe limitation on the production of pottery items, potentially causing a crisis in the future. Merchants collectively urge the government to intervene and ensure a consistent supply of clay for sustaining their craft.
Pottery, known for its cooling properties, has seen a surge in sales. However, artisans are struggling to procure sufficient clay to keep up with the demand. "Every year, our industry dwindles more due to this ongoing issue," mentioned one of the merchants. They stressed that immediate action from the district administration is necessary to address the shortages that are increasingly impacting their livelihood.
In the past, the availability of clay was consistent, but recent years have seen a significant increase in shortages, putting the entire pottery production at risk. "Even with permissions to extract clay, the actual availability on the ground is much less than needed," added another merchant. Continuing this way will lead to a severe limitation on the production of pottery items, potentially causing a crisis in the future. Merchants collectively urge the government to intervene and ensure a consistent supply of clay for sustaining their craft.