NGT Probe: Toxic Chromium Levels Soar in Odisha Mines

A National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandated joint committee has uncovered alarming levels of hexavalent chromium, a carcinogenic substance, in Sukinda valley, Odisha. Untreated run-off from a private ferro alloys company's chromite mining operations was found to contain this toxic form of chromium at concentrations exceeding the limit by over 100 times. The committee's findings, submitted to the NGT, also highlighted serious deficiencies in mine drainage and overburden dump management.

The probe was initiated following a petition alleging the discharge of untreated mine waste into Damasala nullah, which contaminates local water sources flowing into the Brahmani river. The inspection team identified inadequate effluent treatment and improper handling of overburden dumps as major concerns. A centralized hexavalent chromium treatment facility with tertiary treatment has been recommended for the Sukinda valley.

In response to the environmental crisis, the NGT bench has taken the report on record and scheduled further hearings. The committee also recommended immediate upgradation of the existing effluent treatment plant, environmental compensation, and provision of health check-ups, medicines, and safe drinking water for the affected villagers. The situation poses a potential threat to mining operations due to the lack of a systematic drainage network.