Has the Odisha government encroached on forest land for a steel plant in Jharsuguda?
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Synopsis
The recent notices issued by the NGT highlight serious allegations against an integrated steel plant in Jharsuguda, raising questions about environmental regulations and land rights. With a call for urgent responses from the government and company, this issue underscores the challenges of balancing development and environmental conservation.
Key Takeaways
- NGT issues notices to Odisha Government over forest encroachment.
- Allegations involve an integrated steel plant in Jharsuguda.
- Local social worker Satrughan Meher filed a petition.
- Company has not obtained forest clearance for its projects.
- Concerns over environmental regulations and industrial development.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 3 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has served notices to the Odisha Government, the District Collector, and the Superintendent of Police in Jharsuguda concerning claims that an integrated steel facility in Jharsuguda district has encroached upon over 5 hectares of forest land.
While addressing a petition from local social worker Satrughan Meher, the Tribunal has mandated all pertinent government officials, as well as representatives from the steel company, to submit their responses within one month of receiving the notice.
Meher's petition asserts that the Iron and Steel company operates an integrated steel plant, a captive power station, and a Cement Grinding Unit in Marakuta village, Jharsuguda. The petitioner contends that the company has illegally occupied forest land, designated as Gramya Jungle Kisam in the Record of Rights in Marakuta.
Furthermore, it was revealed that the company had previously applied for the diversion of 5.229 hectares of forest land, but the proposal has since lapsed. “The company has failed to submit a new proposal for diversion,” stated the petitioner's attorney, Sankar Prasad Pani, on Friday.
Pani also mentioned that an RTI application revealed that the Divisional Forest Officer of Jharsuguda confirmed that the company has not yet secured forest clearance for its integrated steel plant and associated projects. Nonetheless, construction activities have been conducted without the necessary approvals from the Central Government under Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, as alleged by the petitioner.
The petitioner’s lawyer claimed that a complaint was submitted on July 21 to the Deputy Director General (Forest) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, urging an inquiry into the unlawful encroachment of forest land, but no action has been taken.
Earlier on July 8, the Naib Sarpanch of Marakuta Grampanchayat had also approached the DFO Jharsuguda and Tahsildar Jharsuguda, reporting the illegal encroachment, yet no action has reportedly been taken by the relevant authorities.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in Jharsuguda highlights the critical need for stringent enforcement of environmental laws. The allegations against the steel plant and the lack of action from authorities underscore the importance of safeguarding our natural resources. It is essential for the government to act decisively to maintain trust and uphold environmental standards.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue regarding the steel plant in Jharsuguda?
The main issue is the allegation that the integrated steel plant has illegally encroached upon over 5 hectares of forest land.
Who filed the complaint against the steel plant?
The complaint was filed by local social worker Satrughan Meher.
What has the National Green Tribunal requested?
The NGT has requested the Odisha Government and related authorities to respond to the allegations within one month.
Has the steel plant received forest clearance?
No, the company has not obtained the necessary forest clearance for its operations.
What actions have been taken by local authorities regarding the complaint?
Despite complaints lodged by both the petitioner and the Naib Sarpanch, no action has reportedly been taken by the authorities.
