Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari has stated that the state government is dedicated to safeguarding the interests of ordinary citizens during the land acquisition process in coal mining regions and announced that a new rehabilitation and resettlement policy will be implemented soon.
During a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, Pujari addressed issues related to land acquisition, rehabilitation, and resettlement of displaced individuals in coal mining and thermal power project areas in Angul, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, and Sambalpur districts.
“For development, we want mines and industry, but first and foremost, we are for the welfare of common people. We cannot put their lives at risk. It is not advisable to displace the poor and build houses for others,” the minister emphasized, highlighting the importance of balancing industrialization with the interests of the populace.
He instructed officials to prioritize the allocation of state land to companies for projects, indicating that the acquisition of private land should be a last resort. Additionally, he urged industries to provide fair compensation, ensure local employment, and implement welfare measures for those affected.
The minister further reviewed land acquisition concerns and announced that it was decided to exclude non-coal mining areas from the coal-bearing clause through the Rehabilitation and Peripheral Development Advisory Committee (RPDAC) to benefit displaced and landless individuals.
Pujari also directed industrial and mining companies to establish new colonies in developed areas for the rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced residents. He requested Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) to issue land pattas (records) for acquired land and create new colonies for those displaced.
The meeting concluded with the decision to regulate truck-based fly ash transportation, identified as a significant source of dust and pollution, restricting it to specific time windows, preferably at night, using covered vehicles.
The minister also proposed the adoption of scientific and environmentally friendly alternatives such as underground conveyor systems for fly ash transport. The State Pollution Control Board has been tasked with ensuring regular monitoring and enforcing strict actions against violators.
