Illegal coal mining crackdown: Aryan Coal Washery sealed in Sundargarh

In a decisive action, the district administration and Odisha Mining Department have sealed the Aryan Coal Washery facility located in Sundargarh district following the discovery of illegally stored coal. 

As per reports, the crackdown took place after a special enforcement team from the Mining Department uncovered thousands of tonnes of coal at the Hemgir Kanika site associated with Aryan Coal Washery. 

Officials from the washery were unable to provide necessary documentation or adequate explanations for the coal, resulting in the revocation of its operational licence. An FIR has also been lodged against the company's authority.

Background & Investigation

As per sources, the investigation was triggered by reports of unauthorized coal mining activities in surrounding forest regions. A joint operation involving the district administration, mining department, and local police targeted various coal washeries in the area as part of a wider crackdown on April 10. 

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The raid on Aryan Washery reportedly resulted in the recovery of approximately 10,000 tonnes of coal from its premises near Hemagiri Kanika.

Continued Efforts

For the past 12 days, authorities have intensified efforts to eliminate illegal mining operations in the forested areas around Hemagiri, specifically focusing on the Gopalpur Forest Range and nearby locations such as Telendihi, Ratansara, Jamkani, and Bhograkacha.

These operations highlight the administration's commitment to curbing illegal activities and enforcing mineral resource regulations across the region.

"The company could not produce any valid documents, and hence it was sealed. We have also lodged an FIR against them. Police will investigate the matter," said Bimbadhar Sethy, Deputy Director of the Mining Department.