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Report on pollution in Sukinda valley disputed

BHUBANESWAR: The Society of Geoscientists and Allied Technologies (SGAT), a body of mineral experts, on Tuesday dismissed the report of USA-based NGO Blacksmith Institute, which identified Sukinda valley of Orissa as one of 10 most polluted hotspots of the globe.

After critical analysis of reports by Blacksmith Institute, Bhubaneswar-based Orissa Voluntary Health Association and New Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment, it was found that the findings on the severity of pollution of the place were exaggerated, B. K Mohanty of SGAT, said addressing press conference here on Tuesday.

They said the assessment and findings of the pollution were based on incorrect facts and erroneous assumptions, Mr. Mohanty said.

The noted mineral expert said though poisonous hexavalent chromium was found in mine ware, Damsala nala and ground water in Sukinda valley, the heavy metal in water was even well below the permissible level.

Pointing out that management of huge overburden was the single largest challenge, Mr. Mohanty said, “management of huge volume of water already stacked and being generated which can give rise to leachable heaxavalent chromium with possible contamination of ground water.

This must receive priority attention.

Devices already known and partially adopted should be put in place.”

Member Secretary of Orissa State Pollution Control Board B. K Mishra said there were still problems, which were to be addressed properly.

The board had already approved a comprehensive action plan with a provision to monitor quality of run-off water and dedicated drinking water supply to local population around chromite mining zone.

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