Vedanta Aluminium’s hydrogeological plan focuses on groundwater recharge and runoff management

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Vedanta Aluminium has developed a hydrogeological blueprint for the Sijimali region in Odisha, with the aim of improving water availability and strengthening long-term water security.

According to scientific studies conducted for the project, local water availability could increase by up to 200 per cent through better capture of rainwater runoff and improved groundwater recharge.

The plan proposes a range of soil and water conservation measures, including contour bunding, check dams, settling ponds, slope stabilisation structures and a 7,500-metre drainage network. These interventions are designed to improve rainwater flow into local catchments and water bodies.

Vedanta has shared that the project has been planned with measures to protect groundwater resources. Studies indicate that groundwater in the region is found at depths of around 350-550 metres below ground level. At the same time, the proposed activities will take place at much shallower levels, avoiding direct interaction with aquifers.

The company has also expanded its water stewardship and watershed development programmes in Odisha's Kalahandi and Rayagada districts around its Lanjigarh refinery.

According to the company, these initiatives have created more than 1.8 million cubic metres of water storage and groundwater recharge capacity. The projects are intended to improve irrigation access and strengthen water security in rural communities.

Vedanta said it has restored more than 73 water bodies across 26 villages through watershed and community water management programmes. The restored infrastructure has helped provide irrigation to over 1,600 acres of farmland and benefited more than 4,000 people.

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The company stated that these efforts aim to address water scarcity in parts of Odisha vulnerable to climate-related challenges.

Karbi Majhi, a resident of Banigaon village, said, “ With the restoration of water bodies in our village, water is available closer to home and throughout the year. It has reduced our hardship and improved our quality of life.” 

Dhananjaya Patra, a farmer from Batelima village, said improved irrigation facilities have enabled farmers to cultivate their land more reliably and, in some cases, grow an additional crop, providing greater income stability.