Raigad Bauxite Mine Related Issues

Context

Medha Patkar and other environmental activists tried to hold a protest against bauxite mining in Raigad, Odisha which was opposed by the Odisha Police.

About Raigad Bauxite Mine Dispute

• Mining proposal: Vedanta Limited, one of India’s largest aluminium producers, has proposed to mine the large ‘Sijimali Bauxite Deposit’ located in the districts of Raigad and Kalahandi.
• Concern: Local communities express concern about the potential negative impact on the local ecology and environment.
• Controversy: A public hearing was held to obtain environmental clearance for the Sijimali Bauxite Mining Project but it became controversial.
• Protests and Activism: Villagers are protesting against the mining proposals, fearing loss of their land and livelihoods and potential environmental damage.

Effects of Bauxite Mining in Raigarh

Environmental Damage

• Deforestation: 699 hectares of forest land affected in Sijimali Project.
• Biodiversity Loss: 73 species of trees, 21 species of grasses, 20 mammal species, and many reptiles, birds and amphibians endangered.
• Disruption of Water Resources: Rivers and springs drying up, leading to scarcity of water for agriculture and daily use.
• Air and Water Pollution: Air pollution due to dust from mining and transportation, respiratory problems especially in pregnant women; water pollution likely from mining waste.
• Land Degradation: Desertification, landslides and flash floods due to open-pit mining.

Impact on Livelihoods

• Displacement: Displacement of 100 families from 18 villages and impact on livelihoods of 500 additional families in Sijimali Project.
• Loss of agricultural land: Dust and mining waste render fields barren, reducing food self-sufficiency.
• Limited employment opportunities: Job promises unfulfilled, minimal employment for locals.

Social and cultural impacts

• Threat to tribal communities: Impact on tribal and Dalit traditions, cultural identity and sacred sites like the Bafulimali hill.
• Rights violations: Violation of Forest Rights Act (2006) and PESA Act (1996), mining in scheduled areas without the consent of the Gram Sabha.
• Community opposition: Strong opposition from villagers, arrests under UAPA and police repression during public hearings.

Health problems

Respiratory diseases: Increasing air pollution from dust, especially respiratory problems.