Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) is a vital tool used to predict the effect of any proposed activity or project on the environment. Statutorily mandated under the Environment Protection Act of 1986 for specific projects, it involves a thorough process of screening, scoping, and impact prediction. The EIA report is then made available to the public for their consultation and feedback.
Metallurgical Processes and Environmental Concerns
Metallurgical processes often lead to environmental concerns due to the release of pollutants and potential damage to water sources. This becomes particularly evident when looking at the distribution, mining, and processing of bauxite, an essential ore for aluminium.
Bauxite: Its Distribution and Relevance
Bauxite is a rock mainly consisting of hydrated aluminium oxides. Often found as capping on hills and plateaus, it is used to produce alumina through the Bayer process. Rising demand for aluminium has led to an increased need for bauxite, particularly from emerging Asian economies.
Global reserves of bauxite, as per 2015 data, are estimated at 30 billion tonnes. They are primarily located in Guinea, Australia, Vietnam, Brazil, Jamaica, Indonesia, and China. In India, Odisha holds the largest share of the country’s bauxite resources followed by Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh,
The Mali Parbat Bauxite Mining Lease Issue
The Mali Parbat Bauxite Mining Lease case has come into the spotlight ahead of the Odisha State Pollution Control Board’s (OSPCB) hearing on its Environment Clearance. Local people have started protests demanding the lease’s permanent cancellation.
The History and Controversy
The opposition to mining activities in Maliparbat dates back to 2003 when the Odisha SPCB organized a public hearing for environmental clearance. A lease was granted to Hindalco in 2007 amidst allegations from the villagers that their objections were overlooked.
Given that the company’s Environment Impact Assessment report failed to acknowledge the 36 perennial streams that provide water to the local people, several demands were made to cancel the bauxite mining project.
Impact on Local Communities and Environment
Local tribes and environmentalists have raised concerns that mining activities in Maliparbat would affect around 42 villages, deplete water sources from around 36 streams and four canals, and have an adverse impact on the livelihoods of the tribals. The Mali and forest area are home to members of the Kondha, Paraja and Gadaba tribes.
Illegal Mining and Its Consequences
Despite setbacks and expired clearances, the company allegedly commenced mining between 2012-2014 without renewing its environmental clearance. This led to further protests and rising environmental concerns, shedding light on the importance of adhering to regulations and conducting thorough Environmental Impact Assessments.
Evolving Situation: A New Lease and Public Hearing
The industry has now been granted a new lease for 50 years, necessitating another public hearing. This event has brought forth the need for greater transparency, community involvement, and consideration of environmental impacts in re-evaluating mining projects.
References to Bauxite and Related Issues in Previous UPSC Examinations
Previous Years Questions (PYQs) of the UPSC Civil Services Examination have included queries related to minerals, including bauxite. Examples of these questions underline the importance of understanding the distribution, mining, and environmental implications of major and minor minerals for aspirants of the examination.
