State officials carry out preliminary survey in Narlam ahead of proposed bauxite mining in Kasaragod

A preliminary survey was recently conducted on Forest Department land in Narlam in preparation for proposed bauxite mining operations. The inspection was led by M.C. Kishore, Additional Director of State Mining and Geology, with the participation of Revenue and Forest officials.

Bauxite deposits have been identified across 150 hectares, and the survey aimed to assess the land available for mining. A detailed survey is scheduled to begin next week and is expected to be completed within a month, after which a report will be submitted to the State government.

Mining activities will be confined to forest land, focusing on rocky areas while avoiding soil-rich zones, residential areas, and places of worship. Officials estimate that at least 100 hectares will be available for extraction. Mining is planned to a depth of approximately five meters, after which the land will be repurposed for agriculture and other uses.

Beyond Narlam, bauxite deposits have also been identified in the Ukkinadukka block, where most of the land is owned privately. Survey and drilling have already been completed, and samples have been sent for testing.

To address public concerns about mining on private land, the initial phase of operations will be conducted in the Narlam forest area. Studies by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) have confirmed commercially viable mineral deposits in multiple locations across Kasaragod. Once testing is complete, a high-level committee led by the Industries Department Principal Secretary will oversee the bidding process for mining rights.