The Presiding Officers on the Dais
TFP Bureau, Balodabazar, January 20, 2025: A public hearing held on Monday at the Government High School in Mopar village, regarding the environmental clearance for the expansion of Ambuja Cement’s limestone mine, concluded successfully. With 99% of attendees supporting the project, the initiative was praised by local residents for its potential to drive employment, infrastructure growth, and social development in the region. The hearing was overseen by Presiding Officer Ms. Deepti Gaute, Additional District Collector of Balodabazar, along with Additional District Collector Mr. Abhishek Gupta from Bhatapara and Regional Environment Officer Mr. P.K. Rabde. The event saw participation from hundreds of local residents, community representatives, and administrative officials.
Expansion Details and Local Benefits
As outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Environmental Management Plan, the proposed expansion will increase the mine’s production capacity from 2 million tonnes per annum to 6.3 million tonnes. The mine’s expansion will span several areas including Boirdih, Karmadih, Maldi, Mopar, and Devrani, covering a total area of 553.656 hectares. The project will also introduce a new crusher with a capacity of 1800 tonnes per hour, bringing the total excavation to 11.02 million tonnes annually.
Community Support and Empowerment
Local women expressed their appreciation for Ambuja Foundation’s ongoing health, education, and skill development programs. Meanwhile, both youth and the elderly voiced optimism about the potential for increased employment and training opportunities.
Focus on Skill Development and Empowerment
Mines Head Mr. Manoj Shankar Singh assured the public that the expansion would create valuable employment and skill development opportunities for youth in nearby villages. He highlighted that Ambuja Cement’s training programs would include e-vehicle repair and other technical skills, aimed at increasing employability. He also emphasized the company’s commitment to women empowerment, particularly through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), which will provide women with better self-employment opportunities and improve their standard of living. Furthermore, the expansion project will focus on sustainable agricultural practices, road improvements, and strengthening health infrastructure in the region.
Environmental and Social Initiatives
Ambuja Cement is committed to environmental conservation, with plans to develop 34.8% of the 238.97-hectare project area as a green belt to improve air quality and promote biodiversity. Additionally, the Ambuja Foundation has been actively working in 13 nearby villages over the past two decades, focusing on water management, skill development, education, health, and women’s empowerment. These initiatives have already benefited over 26,000 people.
Positive Expectations for Regional Development
The successful public hearing has garnered strong support from both the local community and the administration, paving the way for the early implementation of the project. The expansion is expected to significantly contribute to the holistic development and economic prosperity of the region.
Ambuja Cement’s senior officials, including Mr. Pratik Pandey, Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Vaibhav Dixit, CMO, and Mr. Pushkar Chaudhary, HR Head, were present at the event. They shared insights into the project’s benefits, as well as the company’s ongoing commitment to social and environmental sustainability.
