New rail line proposed linking Sijimali and Kutrumali bauxite hills in Odisha

The Ministry of Railways has proposed a new rail link in Odisha to connect bauxite-rich areas in Rayagada and Kalahandi, despite ongoing resistance from tribal communities.

The proposed broad-gauge line will link Tikiri station to the Kutrumali and Sijimali bauxite mines under the East Coast Railway’s Waltair Division. Mining rights in these areas have been secured by Vedanta and the Adani Group.

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Adani’s subsidiary, Kalinga Alumina Limited, has proposed an open-cast mining project over 701.792 hectares in Kutrumali, covering parts of Thuamul Rampur and Kashipur. The site holds an estimated 127.737 million tonnes of bauxite. A public hearing for environmental clearance is scheduled for May 12, 2026.

Vedanta gained rights to 1,549.022 hectares in the nearby Sijimali hills, home to over 300 million tonnes of bauxite. The two sites sit just 2 km apart. 

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Local tribal communities and green groups strongly oppose the projects. Residents warn mining will harm forests, water supplies, and their livelihoods.  Villagers have blocked the construction of a 3 km road linking State Highway 44 to the Sijimali hilltop, refusing to allow tree cutting.

Tensions escalated on April 7, when clashes between villagers and police left 58 personnel injured. Activists alleged excessive force and accused authorities of supporting corporate interests.

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Environmental lawyer Shankar Pani said the cumulative ecological impact of multiple mining projects in the Eastern Ghats should be assessed at a regional level. Activist Prafulla Samantara criticised the rail project as evidence that authorities are ignoring local opposition.

The Constitutional Conduct Group has voiced concerns over forest clearances and Forest Rights Act compliance. They point to problems echoing the Niyamgiri ruling.