Land identification for NALCO’s red mud pond obstructed by residents in Odisha

The Dengajaniguda village in Odisha under Dasamantpur block of Koraput district witnessed restlessness as local inhabitants obstructed the government revenue officials from pin-pointing land for Nalco’s red mud pond.

It has been reported that since 11th June 2021, the villagers are geared up with arms, following the information floated to them that Nalco was planning to develop a second red mud pond in the area.

As an industrial waste, red mud is generated during the processing of bauxite into alumina using the Bayer process and, while it comprises various oxide compounds, including iron oxides that deliver the red colour.

Red mud highly toxic metals and its high alkaline nature make it terrifically corrosive and damaging to soil and life forms, presenting a massive problem for disposal.

As per our reports, Ajay Tirkey, the tax officer accompanied by revenue inspectors, supervisors and a police squad reached the spot to identify land for the aluminium major’s requirement.

While seeing the govt. officials, the villagers opposed them to go back. However, the officials tried to pacify them but they remain ignorant. The argument stimulated tension in the area as the officials were compelled to return from the spot.

Eventually, the police registered cases against some persons on charges of provoking the villagers against the revenue officials and obstructing them from performing their official duty.

Simultaneously, the villagers have entailed that the administration should relocate them elsewhere before constructing the red mud pond.

Nalco’s first red mud pond, which is just two kilometres away has already destroyed the farmland, natural streams, watercourse in the area as alleged by the inhabitants and also affected many people with skin and other health issues.

The villagers have notified their problem to the local state assembly member and other local politicians and set a warning of pursuing their fight till their demands are met.