Bhubaneswar: Pritiranjan Gharai, a former minister in Odisha, has reached out to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, requesting his involvement in addressing the alleged illegal and unregulated chromite mining activities in the Sukinda Valley. Gharai claims that the rampant blasting and environmental degradation are jeopardizing the lives and livelihoods of numerous tribal families.

In his letter to the Chief Minister, Gharai pointed out that mining operations at the Kamarda and Saruabil chromite mines, located in the Hatihudi and Kamarda Mundasahi villages within the Kansa panchayat of Sukinda block, have caused significant harm to the surrounding communities.

He noted that ongoing and uncontrolled blasting in the vicinity has resulted in substantial cracks in residential structures, rendering many homes unsafe. Families are reportedly living in fear as their dwellings become increasingly at risk of collapse.

Furthermore, Gharai alleged that chromite-contaminated wastewater being discharged from the mines is contaminating agricultural fields, ponds, and water channels, which has led to decreased soil fertility, crop failures, and serious water pollution.

“The environmental damage has negatively impacted the health of local residents, who are suffering from skin conditions, respiratory issues, kidney problems, and other severe health concerns,” Gharai stated in his correspondence.

He also accused the mining companies of neglecting their legal obligations regarding environmental safeguarding, pollution management, and the welfare of the local populace.

Despite numerous appeals from villagers and local representatives to the district administration and mining officials, no lasting solutions have been put into place, he claimed.

In his plea for urgent action, Gharai called for a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities and urged the implementation of strict measures to stop excessive blasting and environmental harm in the mining area.

Additionally, he requested appropriate compensation for those families whose homes, farmland, and livelihoods have been reportedly compromised by the mining activities.

Gharai implored the Chief Minister to prioritize the welfare of the tribal communities and take decisive actions to protect their health, livelihoods, and the delicate ecosystem of the Sukinda chromite valley.

Copies of his letter have also been sent to the Chairman of the Odisha State Pollution Control Board, the Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS), and the leaders of Tata Steel’s Kamarda and Saruabil mines, seeking necessary action.

No immediate response has been received from the mining companies or the relevant authorities regarding these allegations.