Anandapur: The quarry company, which was carrying out blasting and stone crushing works at Kuamara hill under this block in Keonjhar district, is said to have applied for environmental clearance to restart the works at the hill.
Consequently, the villagers here are apprehensive saying if the permission is granted, it would be detrimental not only to the nearby farmlands but also to the ecology of the area.
During the construction of the left side canal of Baitarani (river) under Anandapur Baitarani Barrage Division, the company engaged for it had been using rough white salt stones from Kuamara hill, instead of granite stones.
At that time, the villagers allowed the activity by giving their thumb impression as the work was meant for ‘development purpose’.
Later, it was found that the company continued blasting and crushing stones even after its sanctioned time was over. Stone chips were allegedly sent to neighbouring districts and states in nights. The company was carrying out illegal blasting and other activities, allegedly by taking some officials to its side.
At that time, residents of 15 villages of Kantipal and Kathakata panchayats had complained.
Farmlands in Chaturi Sahi, Khilar Sahi, Behera Sahi and Kohla Sahi of Kantipal panchayat, Munda Sahi in Raipal panchayat and Mahanta Sahi in Kathakata panchayat had turned into pasture lands.
After frequent complains and media coverage, Anandapur tehsil had conducted raids and a fine was collected. Consequently, the company had shifted its illegal crusher to somewhere else.
Now word is doing the rounds that a process, involving lower to higher rung officials, is going on to restart the crusher at the Kuamara hill.
Senior citizens said the administration should not play second fiddle to the villagers’ interest while considering giving a green signal to the company.
PNN
