Chairing a high-level review meeting in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, the minister conducted an extensive assessment of land acquisition, rehabilitation, and resettlement challenges in coal mining and thermal power project zones across Angul, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, and Sambalpur districts. The discussions focused on addressing displacement concerns while ensuring that development projects proceed responsibly.
Emphasising the government’s stance, Pujari stated that while industrial growth and mining activities are essential for development, the welfare of common people remains the top priority. He underscored that displacing economically vulnerable communities for the benefit of others is unacceptable and warned against compromising their safety and livelihoods.
The minister directed officials to prioritise the allocation of government-owned land to industries, making it clear that acquisition of privately owned land should only be considered as a last resort. He also instructed companies to ensure fair compensation, generate local employment opportunities, and implement welfare initiatives for affected populations.
During the meeting, it was decided that non-coal mining areas would be excluded from the coal-bearing classification through the Rehabilitation and Peripheral Development Advisory Committee, a move expected to benefit displaced and landless individuals. Pujari further directed industrial and mining companies to establish new residential colonies in well-developed areas to facilitate proper rehabilitation.
He specifically instructed Mahanadi Coalfields Limited to issue land ownership documents for acquired land and to develop new settlements for displaced residents. Addressing environmental concerns, the minister highlighted that truck-based transportation of fly ash has been identified as a major source of dust and pollution. He ordered strict regulation of such transportation, limiting it to designated time windows, preferably during night hours, and mandating the use of covered vehicles.
In addition, Pujari advocated for the adoption of scientific and environmentally sustainable alternatives, including underground conveyor systems for transporting fly ash. The State Pollution Control Board has been tasked with continuous monitoring and enforcing strict action against violations.
The proposed policy and directives signal a significant shift in Odisha’s approach to industrialisation, aiming to ensure that economic progress does not come at the cost of human dignity, environmental safety, or social justice.
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