Keonjhar: Rampant industrial activities continue to take a heavy toll on people residing in and around the Gandhamardan mine being operated by Orissa Mining Corporation (OMC) under Keonjhar mining circle. Trees are being removed to make space for mines and roads while timber mafia have become hyper active to loot the sylvan wealth courtesy slack security measures.
Some quarries in the mining area have remained closed as environmental clearances have not come their way while one mine has remained operational.
Mineral extraction and transportation in the OMC-operated mine were entrusted to a private agency while the state-owned agency allegedly shirked its responsibilities to ensure workers’ safety and environmental protection.
The private agency allegedly indulged in gross illegalities and exploitation of workers. The latter have gone up in arms in the past but OMC and the forest department have done precious little to address these issues.
Clouds of dust emanating from mining and road construction work in the forest and improper management of waste are major factors leading to environment pollution in the area.
Significantly, the Bhuyan tribals living around the mine are the worst sufferers.
Mining waste is disposed of in such a manner that its dust particles fly about in the air leaving a layer of soot on the foliage and farmlands, taking a heavy toll on the agriculture.
They alleged that the authorities looked away from the adverse impact on the livelihood of tribals and local residents. Also, mining waste directly drains out into nullahs, creeks and rivers during rainy season.
Locals alleged they are not given basic wages under the existing labour law, let alone other employment facilities like PF. Names of workers are not maintained in registers due to which they fail to get benefits in case of accidents.
The locals admitted they think twice before speaking against the agency as the local police and the district administration allegedly favour the private firm.
They further alleged that accidents were common due to slackness in safety measures. Many casualties are suppressed, which need to be probed by director general of mining and safety, mining enforcement, labour enforcement department, said social activist Akhaya Patnaik.
Environmentalist Duskar Barik demanded action against the mining agency which causes harm to the lives and livelihoods of locals.
When contacted for his comment, OMC regional manager Prashant Kumar Sahu said a round the clock security check is maintained at four gates. Waste is being managed as per waste management, he added. PNN
