A delegation of seven villagers of Talakai Padar and Narsikai Padar of Odia Pentha gram panchayat in Koraput district has met the State Pollution Control Board Member-Secretary and lodged a complaint about the damages caused by the Kodingamali bauxite mine, Laxmipur run by the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC).
The OMC bauxite mining project in Kodingahill started in February 2018 without the consent of Gram Sabhas has damaged agricultural land, environment and water bodies in the area, the delegation alleged.
On October 12, 2018, the mining over burden (mine rejects) were flooded into the agricultural lands in Talakai Padar and Narsikai Padar villages. Besides, lands recognised under the Forest Rights Act have also been damaged.
Though villagers had lodged a complaint before the district Collector in this regard, no action has been taken yet.
Here in Bhubaneswar also they have given representation to the Member Secretary of Pollution Control Board on 1st November and demanded for site inspection followed appropriate action against OM for the damage caused to their land.
Besides, the mine water has polluted the local streams, which are lifeline of the local community.
Few of such streams locally called as Utan Jola, Gunji Heini, Misini Miringi, Grispa Haan, Jai Mandin, Dangiri Jhola, Munda Jhola, Jading Jala, Kaja Miring, Lukka Padar, Ambili Bara, Karki Jala, Kida Baara and Barada Ganda are located in Talakai Padar village.
Apart from this, because of transportation of minerals though 300 trucks, village roads have been damaged and air is being polluted.
The villagers requested SPCB Member Secretary to visit the affected villages and take urgent action to save agricultural field and check the water and air pollution.
They further demanded that the OMC be directed to stop mining operation till the conditions are fully complied.