Koraput/Bhubaneswar, 17/12/2019: Navratna CPSE 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 today in a peaceful and amicable manner, wherein thousands of villagers from periphery villages of Pottangi block attended the meeting held by the district administration. The villagers, while putting forth their demands, favourably voiced support for the Nalco to carry out mining and developmental activities.

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. Shri Deben Kumar Pradhan, Additional District Magistrate of Koraput presided over the meeting.

Outlining on the various developmental activities being undertaken by NALCO exclusively for development of Pottangi block, the officials of the company also shared on the occasion, the details of 31 developmental projects being executed under CSR at an estimated cost of Rs.12 crores. It was informed that there would be no displacement under this mining activity and the company would implement modern technology and adopt sustainable mining practices with effective environment management.

Worth mentioning that, over the years the existing Panchpatmali bauxite mines of NALCO has been widely recognized for afforestation, reclamation and environment protection measures. So far the company has taken up plantation of more than 80 lakh saplings. The Panchpatmali bauxite mines has also been accorded 5 star rating by Ministry of Mines, Govt of India  for implementation of Sustainable Development framework and many awards from Indian Bureau of Mines. Besides, Nalco has successfully addressed the development and welfare of the community residing in the periphery villages through activities like healthcare & education initiatives, infrastructure development etc.

As of now, 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 youth.