The National Aluminium Company Limited (Nalco) was allotted the Pottangi bauxite mines in Koraput district. As part of statutory conditions, the public hearing for environment clearance was held on Tuesday in a peaceful and amicable manner, wherein thousands of villagers from periphery villages of Pottangi block attended the meeting supporting the project.
With significant participation of villagers, the meeting was conducted smoothly in presence of large number of public representatives, present and past members of Parliament of Koraput and others, who shared their views. Koraput ADM Deben Kumar Pradhan presided over the meeting. As of now, the Nalco is using the bauxite from its Panchpatmali mines to feed stock to its refinery. For the company’s expansion plans this additional source of bauxite is essential. The production capacity of bauxite from proposed Pottangi mine is 3.5 MTPA. With the grant of mining lease, it will hugely benefit and contribute for the development of Pottangi and adjoining areas. Apart from infrastructure development, opening up of new business establishments, public services, it will also facilitate direct and indirect employment to the local youths, said a release.
