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The public hearing on the proposed expansion of Kodingamali Bauxite Mine in Odisha concluded peacefully on June 21 with the residents of nearby villages backing the project but raising concerns over infrastructure and livelihoods.
{alcircleadd}The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)’s regional office conducted the public hearing in Rayagada town for a proposal to increase the mine’s annual bauxite production from 3.6 million tonnes to 6 million tonnes.
The hearing was participated by more than 500 residents from villages like Kansariguda, Podapadi, Kindiripadar, Phuljaba, Uparkodinga, Bankamba and Bajragada, officials said. During the course of the proceedings 26 villagers spoke in favour of the expansion and a further 23 submitted written consents in support of the proposal.
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The villagers, as the project’s backers, demanded better basic infrastructure and public services. Better drinking water facilities, road connectivity, health care services, schools and pension benefits were among the key demands. The residents also demanded more jobs for the local youth and steps to facilitate the socio-economic development of the region.
The Kodingamali Bauxite Mine is operated by Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) over an area of 428.075 hectares of land in Laxmipur and Kashipur tehsils of undivided Koraput region.
Additional District Magistrate (Revenue) Nihar Ranjan Kahar and Regional Pollution Control Officer Ashok Bhoi were present during the hearing. Senior officers of the district administration and police were present there.
The proposed expansion is likely to offer more bauxite supply for the aluminium industry. The hearing underscored the need to ensure that industrial expansion aligns with local development priorities.
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