Villagers and stakeholders participate in large numbers during the public hearing for the proposed Pelma coal mining project.
Strong turnout marks Raigarh’s Pelma coal mine public hearing
⛏️ Proposed SECL project planned over 2,077.934 hectares with 15 MTPA capacity
⛏️ Villagers raise development, employment and infrastructure expectations
⛏️ Proceedings conducted under environmental clearance norms in a peaceful manner
By : Akshay Lahre
Raigarh : The public hearing for South Eastern Coalfields Limited’s (SECL) proposed Pelma Open Cast Coal Mine project concluded on Sunday amid substantial public participation and extensive stakeholder engagement at Pelma village, marking a key step in the environmental clearance process.
Organised under provisions of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notification dated September 14, 2006, the proceedings were chaired by Additional District Magistrate Apoorv Priyesh Toppo in the presence of Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board Regional Officer Manvendra Shekhar Pandey.
The proposed project has been planned over 2,077.934 hectares with a production capacity of 15 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The mining project is expected to influence Pelma, Urba, Maduadumar, Lalpur, Hinjhar, Jaridih, Sakta, Milupara, Kharra and adjoining areas.
During the hearing, SECL officials presented details of the project and responded to queries, suggestions and concerns raised by local residents. Participants discussed issues related to employment generation, infrastructure development, economic opportunities and community welfare.
Representatives of local panchayats and villagers expressed expectations that the project would create new livelihood opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the region. Women participants also highlighted the importance of self-employment and empowerment initiatives and hoped such programmes would expand further with future development.
The hearing also included presentations on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report, environmental management measures and socio-economic aspects associated with the project. Community members viewed the hearing as an important platform for expressing their concerns and development aspirations.
Officials stated that the entire process was conducted in accordance with prescribed guidelines and regulatory norms. The large turnout, orderly proceedings and active participation by stakeholders underscored the significance of the consultation process in the environmental approval framework.
