Environmentalists concerned over plan to auction mining blocks in Odisha

They fear move could prove disastrous for wildlife, ecosystem

The proposed auctioning of 11 mines in Odisha has evoked sharp reactions among environmentalists and citizen groups, who fear that the move could prove disastrous for wildlife as well as the ecosystem. Of the 11 mines up for auction, seven are virgin blocks, which require large-scale felling of trees before commencing the process of mineral extraction. Ten out of 11 mining blocks are iron ore mines, while one is a bauxite deposit. Karlapat bauxite block, which is going to be auctioned, is the most controversial of all as it shares its border with Karlapat Sanctuary in Kalahandi district.