Activists express concerns over ‘exploitation’ of bauxite deposits in Odisha
Environmental activists in Odisha are protesting the auctioning of bauxite mines, arguing that mining in the Eastern Ghats threatens water security and local agriculture. They claim that current production levels are excessive and cause irreversible ecological damage to 'water sponge' hill ranges.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing tension between industrial mineral extraction and the preservation of ecologically sensitive regions vital for water resources.
Expressing deep concern over the auctioning of bauxite reserves in Odisha, environmental activists on Tuesday (August 11, 2026) alleged that the State’s current bauxite production, far exceeding the country’s requirements, is destroying the ecologically sensitive hill ranges of the Eastern Ghats.
“The indiscriminate granting of bauxite mining leases will deplete the State’s mineral resources and destroy its sustainable water sources. The government should immediately cancel the bauxite deposits already allotted and withdraw the auction notifications for upcoming mines,” said environmentalist and Goldman Environmental Prize winner Prafulla Samantara at a press conference.
“The intrinsic nature of bauxite ore — a precious gift of nature — is to absorb rainwater, store it underground and release it gradually through natural springs after the rains. These springs feed perennial streams and rivers. Wherever bauxite-bearing regions exist across the globe, they are considered ‘water sponges’,” Mr. Samantara said.
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