Home / Environment / NGT Orders Odisha to Seal Contaminated Wells
NGT Orders Odisha to Seal Contaminated Wells
18 Jul
Summary
- Hexavalent chromium contaminates groundwater in Sukinda valley.
- NGT orders permanent sealing of contaminated wells in Odisha.
- Study reveals high chromium levels in deeper aquifers.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has mandated the permanent sealing of contaminated wells in Odisha's Sukinda valley due to hexavalent chromium pollution. This directive stems from a Central Ground Water Board study revealing alarming levels of the carcinogen in deeper groundwater sources.
The NGT initiated proceedings based on a resident's complaint alleging severe water pollution from chromite mining in the Kaliapani industrial area. While the tribunal dismissed a direct link to local deaths, it acknowledged the serious water crisis.
The CGWB study found hexavalent chromium exceeding permissible limits in deeper aquifers, though shallow ones remained clear. This contamination is attributed to natural processes involving the region's chromite deposits.
To address public health risks, the NGT has instructed officials to regularly inspect and close contaminated water bodies. The installation of arsenic removal plants and joint inspection teams were also ordered for ongoing water quality management.
