Bhubaneswar, June 1, ( Newshub Desk): Former Odisha Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Pritiranjan Ghadai has raised serious concerns over rampant illegal chromite mining in Sukinda Valley, Jajpur district.
In a strongly worded letter to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Ghadai called for urgent action, citing massive revenue losses and severe environmental degradation.
According to Ghadai, approximately 20 individuals have been engaged in chromite theft at Sukinda Chromite Block-1—an area under the Ransol Forest Office and Sukinda Forest Range.
Despite enforcement efforts, illegal operations persist, with a joint forest squad raid on May 27, 2025, failing to deter the perpetrators.
The ex-minister also highlighted the prevalence of rat-hole mining, an illegal extraction method that has surged in four to five locations within the Mahagiri DPF area, particularly near Kakudia village and Kankadapal Gram Panchayat.
He criticised the District Mining Security Squad, Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), and the district administration for failing to implement adequate control measures.
Illegal mining in Sukinda Valley—one of India’s richest chromite mining regions—has led to both ecological destruction and financial setbacks for the state government.
Ghadai’s appeal urges the CM to enforce stringent legal measures, protect Odisha’s mineral wealth, and halt further environmental damage.
With the issue gaining traction, pressure mounts on the Odisha government to take decisive action against illegal mining in Sukinda Valley.
