Odisha: Alleged environmental violations at Jajpur mining site trigger scrutiny

The Manduka Morrum Quarry in Odisha’s Jajpur district has come under regulatory scrutiny following allegations of illegal mining and large-scale violations of environmental norms. The quarry, which is engaged in the extraction of stone and minor minerals for construction purposes, operates under conditions laid down in its Environmental Clearance (EC) to minimise environmental damage and ensure the safety of nearby habitations.

Residents also alleged that minerals extracted from the quarry were transported through village roads without proper authorisation. Overloaded trucks were reportedly seen passing through residential areas and near a primary school, creating safety hazards for villagers, pedestrians and schoolchildren. The movement of heavy vehicles on narrow village roads was said to have increased the risk of accidents and damage to local infrastructure.

Further allegations include non-maintenance of mandatory safety and buffer zones around the quarry site, which are required to protect nearby settlements from noise, dust and other mining-related disturbances. The petitioners also pointed to dust pollution caused by uncovered transportation of minerals, claiming that it adversely affected air quality and posed health risks, particularly to children and the elderly.

The complaints further stated that mandatory quarterly environmental compliance reports were not submitted to the authorities, as required under environmental regulations. The petitioners also alleged that despite repeated complaints, local authorities failed to take timely action to address the violations.

Taking cognisance of these allegations, the National Green Tribunal observed that the matter raised substantial questions relating to compliance with environmental laws. The tribunal subsequently ordered a detailed examination of the quarry’s operations to verify adherence to environmental and mining regulations.