Vedanta seeks SC nod for mining in Orissa

Vedanta Aluminium has begun trial runs of its one-MT alumina plant here and sought the Supreme Court's nod to mine bauxite on Niyamgiri hills through a joint-venture between Sterlite Industries and Orissa Mining Corporation.

Denying that bauxite mining would cause environmental damage to Niyamgiri hills, as is being alleged by certain NGOs, C V Krishnan, Head (Business Development) Vedanta Group, said the forest cover generally improved after bauxite mining due to reclamation and compensatory afforestation.

Krishnan said there was no habitation in the proposed bauxite mining lease area at Niyamgiri, and hence, no question of displacement arose. Moreover, Krishnan added, the water resources would improve as confirmed by Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Ranchi.

"We have successfully rehabilitated all 118 families who were displaced in the refinery area and all basic amenities have been provided to those people. As far as mining area is concerned, there is no human habitation. Therefore, there is no question of any person being displaced.

"All information that is being spread is incorrect and not in tune with ground realities," Krishnan said.

Working on the social development in the Lanjigarh and Kalahandi districts, the company has already spent Rs 20 crore from year 2004 onwards and has committed Rs 4-5 crore every year for CSR activities.

A total of 118 families from seven villages residing near the Niyamgiri hills have been rehabilitated. The villages are Kinari, Borbhata, Kothduar, Sindhbahal, Narayanpur, Kasibadi, and Rengopali.