SUKINDA, SEP 3
The Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI) Bhubaneswar-Sukinda Chapter held a successful session titled “Environmental Challenges in Mining, Assessment, and their Solution” at the Sukinda Valley Club, located within the Sukinda Chromite Mine of Tata Steel Limited. The session aimed to unite experts, stakeholders, and industry leaders to address pressing environmental issues in the mining sector and to explore sustainable solutions.
The event was honoured by the presence of Pramod Kumar Behera, Regional Officer of the State Pollution Control Board, who served as the Chief Guest, and Madan Mohan Sahu, Senior Environmental Engineer, as the Guest of Honour. Their contributions emphasized the significance of proactive and collaborative approaches in tackling environmental challenges related to mining.
“The environmental impact of mining operations is a critical concern that demands innovative and responsible solutions. I commend the MEAI Bhubaneswar-Sukinda Chapter for creating a platform where industry professionals and regulators can unite to discuss actionable steps toward sustainable mining practices,” said Pramod Kumar Behera.
Shambu Nath Jha, Secretary of the MEAI Bhubaneswar-Sukinda Chapter, welcomed the attendees and facilitated a series of expert talks and discussions. These sessions focused on key challenges including land degradation, waste management, and the effects of mining on local ecosystems. The discussions highlighted the need for adopting best practices and cutting-edge technologies to minimize environmental footprints and enhance resource efficiency.
In a virtual address, Pankaj Satija, Chairman of the Bhubaneswar-Sukinda Chapter and Executive In-charge (EIC) of FAMD at Tata Steel, emphasized, “Sustainable mining is not just an option but a responsibility. This session reflects the industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its ongoing efforts to engage with stakeholders to foster positive change.” He also spoke about India’s goal of achieving Net Zero by 2070, the measures needed for carbon footprint reduction, and how public perceptions of mining-related environmental hazards influence policy-making.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to enhancing collaboration between the mining industry, regulatory bodies, and local communities. The collective aim is to drive long-term sustainability in mining operations, reflecting a shared vision for a greener future.
