Allowed

Mantu Das v. State of Odisha

NGT10 Jul 2026Original Application No. 73/2024

Case brief

AI extract

What is this about?

Applicant complained of water pollution and deaths due to chromite mining in Sukinda Valley. Joint Committee found ETPs compliant but noted environmental risks. Tribunal directed State Govt and CGWB to expand safe drinking water, seal contaminated wells, and monitor water quality to mitigate public health risks.

What did the court decide?

Direction to expand safe drinking water schemes, seal contaminated wells, monitor water quality, and constitute joint teams for continuous water quality management.

Mantu Das vs State of Odisha — Mining and Natural Resources | NGT (2026)

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Item No.13

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BEFORE THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL EASTERN ZONE BENCH, KOLKATA

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(THROUGH PHYSICAL HEARING WITH HYBRID MODE)

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ORIGINAL APPLICATION NO.73/2024/EZ

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IN THE MATTER OF:

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Mantu Das

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S/o Late Ratnakar Das, R/o Sanabagsahii P.O. Jhalpada, P.S. Jajpur Sadar, District Jajpur, Odisha-755005.

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Versus

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1. Principal Secretary, Environment, Forests and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, Aranyabhawan Plot No 2/12 Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar 751023.

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Respondent no.1

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2. Member Secretary, Odisha State Pollution Control Board Paribesh Bhawan, A/118, Nilakantha Nagar, Unit – VIII, Bhubaneswar – 751012, Odisha Respondent no.2 3. Member Secretary, Central Ground Water Board Ministry of Jal Shakti, CSMRS Campus, Olof Palme Marg, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110016 Respondent no.3 4. Member Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board, Parivesh Bhawan, CBD-cum-Office Complex, East Arjun Nagar, Shahdara, Delhi - 110032 Respondent no.4 5. Collector & District Magistrate, Jajpur Office of the Collector and District Magistrate, SH 56, Kianalikul, Jajpur, Odisha 755001 Respondent no.5 For the Applicant:

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Respondent no.3

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Respondent no.4

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Mr. Sankar Prasad Pani and Mr. Ashutosh Padhy, Advocates.

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For the Respondents:

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Mr. Padmesh Mishra, Special Counsel for respondents no.1 and 5. Mr. Dipanjan Ghosh, Advocate for respondent no.2.

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Mr. Ashok Prasad, Advocate for respondent no.3. Mr. Rajib Ray, Advocate for respondent no.4.

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PRESENT:

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HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE ARUN KUMAR TYAGI, JUDICIAL MEMBER HON’BLE MR. ISHWAR SINGH, EXPERT MEMBER

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_______________________________________________________________________________ Judgment reserved on:- 10.04.2026
Judgment pronounced on:- 10.07.2026

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Judgment

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PRONOUNCED BY HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE ARUN KUMAR TYAGI, JM

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The applicant- Mantu Das had sent by post a letter petition to this Tribunal, which has been treated and registered as Original Application No. 73/2024/EZ for exercise of suo motu jurisdiction in accordance with

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law laid down by Hon’ble Supreme Court in Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai vs. Ankita Sinha, (2022) 13 SCC 401 .

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The applicant raised grievances regarding severe water pollution due to industrial activity including chromite mining leading to serious health hazards and causing death of 10-15 persons within a month. The relevant

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part of the letter petition treated as Original Application, which enumerates

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grievances of the applicant, reads as under:-

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“I am writing to bring to your esteemed attention the alarming situation prevailing in the Kaliapani area of Jajpur district, Odisha, regarding the severe water pollution leading to numerous kidney-related deaths among the residents.

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The purpose of this letter is to file a formal complaint before the National Green Tribunal and request an urgent enquiry into the matter to address the root causes of this crisis and take necessary actions to prevent further loss of lives.

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That Kaliapani comes under Sukinda Tehsildar of District Jajpur Odisha.

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The Kaliapani area, known for its industrial activities, particularly chromite mining, has become one of the major industrial hubs in Odisha. Unfortunately, the unchecked industrialization has resulted in severe pollution of the water, particularly the ground water sources in the region.

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Within the span of just one month, approximately 10-15 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to kidney-related ailments caused by the consumption of contaminated groundwater and water from nearby ponds and other water

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bodies. The list of deceased individuals, including their names and villages, is as follows:

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Laxmipriya Nayak from village Bambilo, who passed away on 21st December,

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Bhujuram Dehury aged 31 from Ostapal under Kanas panchayat, who passed away on 27th December,

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Sunil Kumar Sahu aged 42 years,

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Mangal Marandi aged 52,

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Laxman Marandi aged 63,

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Gurucharan Marandi aged 44, all from Ghagiasahi village, Chakradhar Pradhan aged 25,

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Gobind Dehuri aged 63 years from Village Saruabil, and

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Bhakta Mohanty aged 68 years.

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These deaths are just a few examples of the devastating impact of water pollution on the residents of the area.

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(The groundwater in the Kaliapani area has been found to be excessively toxic, with elevated levels of iron, chromite, total coliform and faecal coliform. The Pollution Control Board's reports indicate alarmingly high levels of these contaminants in the groundwater, rendering it unfit for human consumption. That it is alleged that the effluents discharged by the companies are not being disposed and recycled for which the surface water as well as the groundwater get toxic. As per the Pollution Control Board report, the groundwater in Kamarda and Saruabil mining area has the highest iron content. The test report says that the iron content in groundwater in Saruabil is 2.621ml per litre. Similarly, the iron content is 5.324 ml per litre in Kamarda. This apart, the groundwater in Tisco and Kaliapani areas has high content of total coliform and faecal coliform. The groundwater in Tisco mining area has 1600MPN (most probable number)/100 ml of total coliform and 540MPN/100 ML of faecal coliform. In Kaliapani, the groundwater has 7.8 MPN/100 ML of total coliform and 1.8 MPN/100 ML of faecal coliform. Many private laboratories which have examined the groundwater have found it unfit for human consumption.

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Moreover, the lack of proper water infrastructure in the affected villages exacerbates the crisis, forcing villagers to rely on tube wells or nearby ponds for their water needs. Even when pipelines are available, they often remain defunct, worsening the water crisis in the area.

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The dumping of pollutants in roads, farmlands, and water bodies has severely impacted the ecological balance of the area, leading to widespread health hazards among the villagers.

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In light of the above, I respectfully pray before Hon'ble Tribunal to implement an immediate enquiry into the kidney-related deaths in the Kaliapani area, implementation of measures to mitigate water pollution, ensure access to safe drinking water for the residents, health benefits for the affected families, and enforcement of strict regulations to prevent further environmental degradation in the region.”

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Vide order dated 21.03.2024, this Tribunal impleaded (i) Principal Secretary, Department of Environment, Government of Odisha (ii) Member Secretary, Odisha State Pollution Control Board (iii) Member Secretary, Central Ground Water Board (iv) Member Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board and (v) Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur as respondents no. 1 to 5 and ordered issuance of notices to them requiring filing of responses within four weeks.

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By the abovesaid order, this Tribunal also constituted a Joint Committee comprising of (i) Senior Scientist, Odisha Pollution Control Board, (ii) Senior Scientist, Central Pollution Control Board, (iii) Senior Officer, Central Ground Water Board and (iv) Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur, or his representative not below the rank of Additional District Magistrate and directed the same to visit the sites in question and submit its report within four weeks with reference to the allegation made in the Original Application.

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In compliance thereof, the Member Secretary, Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) filed affidavit dated 07.05.2024 placing report dated 06.05.2024 of the Joint Committee on record. The relevant part of the report of the Joint Committee reads as under:-

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“ Joint Inspection report in the matter OA No. 73/2024/EZMantu Das Vs State of Odisha and Others.

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The Hon'ble NGT has taken up a suo motu case based on the complaint letter submitted by the Applicant Shri Mantu Das alleging severe water pollution leading to the kidney related deaths in the Kaliapani area of Jajpur District, Odisha. The Kaliapani area falls under Sukinda Tehsil & is known for Chromite mining. It was also alleged that 10-15 deaths were reported due to consumption of contaminated ground water having high toxicity arising due to elevated levels of Iron, Chromite, Total Coliform and Fecal Coliform. In connection to this, the Hon'ble NGT in the order dated 21.03.2024 constituted a committee comprising of Senior Scientist of CPCB, Senior Scientist of OSPCB, Senior Officer of CGWB and Collector & District Magistrate, Jajpur, or his representative not below the rank of Additional District Magistrate to conduct the Joint enquiry to verify the allegations mentioned by the petitioner in the aforesaid O.A. The following persons were nominated as the members of the committee.

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1. Mr. Lankeswar Amata, Additional District Magistrate, Kalinganagar

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2. Mr. Pramod Kumar Behera, Senior Environmental Engineer cum Regional Officer, Kalinganagar, representative of OSPCB 3. Mr. Abhijit Pathak, Scientist-D, Central Pollution Control Board, Kolkata

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4. Mr. Sinosh P.K., Scientist-B, Central Ground Water Board, Bhubaneshwar

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Health aspects related to excessive consumption of Chromium contaminated water

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According to the research published by International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health on 28.07.2020, Biological effects of chromium strongly depend on its oxidation state. Cr (III) is an element, nontoxic and poorly absorbed by the human body but Cr (VI) is a toxic form, having probable health impact causing liver and kidney related ailments, internal hemorrhage, and respiratory disorders. It has been characterized as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Cr (VI) can enter the body through both inhalation and ingestion route. Fortunately, human body has compartments and mechanisms for minimizing Cr (VI) toxicity, through specific reducing activities of body fluids. These mechanisms involve the saliva, gastric juice, intestinal bacteria, blood, liver, epithelial lining fluid, pulmonary alveolar macrophages, peripheral lung parenchyma, and bronchial tree. All the deleterious health effects of chromium observed in humans are dose, exposure level and duration dependent. Ingesting approx. 2 g of Cr (VI) compound can result in kidney and liver damage after a few days of exposure, while a dose of 2-5 g of a soluble hexavalent chromium compound can be fatal to an adult human.

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Inspection of the site:

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Inspection of 11 nos of mines in the Sukinda valley was conducted on the 30.04.2024 to verify the factual aspects in the light of the allegations contained in the application to submit a report. The inspecting team thoroughly examined the ETP design status, adopted treatment methods and its disposal, installed online monitoring devices and its function along with performance of ETP with respect to removal efficiency of Cr (VI). The samples were collected by the OSPCB at the inlet and outlet of ETP of various operational mines. The Mines located in the Sukinda Valley are shown below:

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X X X X

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Fact finding on reported death cases as Alleged:

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The allegations stating the death of the 10-15 persons through Kidney related ailments by consumption of contaminated ground water was verified by the office of the Chief District Medical & Public Health Officer, Jajpur. It was found that out of the 9 persons alleged in the O.A., only one was reported to have kidney related disease. The report is attached as Annexure I. Also, it is stated in the report that she was suffering from Diabetes from past 10 years and the status of medication is not mentioned in the report. It may not be substantial to verify the actual cause of death and establish a relationship to chromium (VI) contaminated groundwater. Also in addition to that the person is resident of village Bambilo which is situated at an approximately aerial distance of more than 10 km from Sukinda valley, main possible source of Chromium contamination. The extent of transmission of contaminants in ground water is still a matter of further investigation, which is beyond the scope of present committee at present.

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It is also pertinent to mention that Sukinda valley is the only deposit of Chromite mineral in India, which is an essential ingredient for steel industries. The deposit of Chromite mineral and it's mining may cause leaching out of Chromium content to the water through weathering, so utmost care should be taken to ensure conversion of toxic form of Chromium to its non-toxic form (Cr III) before it reaches surface water or ground water table. OSPCB has implemented stringent standard for industrial operation and responsibility of treatment of mining seepage and the monsoon runoff collected in mining pit is given to the operating mining industries.

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Surface water quality with respect to Chromium (VI) in

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Dhamsala nalla

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Dhamsala nalla is the main discharge area of treated effluent of mining industries in Sukinda valley. The analysis report of OSPCB dated 06.04.2024 reveals that the range of Chromium (VI) at nine sampling points was 0.011 to 0.032 mg/L, which is below the permissible limits (0.05 mg/L) Annexure II.

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Ground water quality with respect to Chromium (VI) in mining area

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The allegations stating the elevated levels of Iron, Chromium, Total and Fecal Coliform in groundwater mentioned in O.A. may not relevant from the present ground water monitoring performed by the OSPCB in the month of March, 2024 and the reports are attached as Annexure III . The reports Indicated that the range of total Chromium in ground water was ranging between 0.015 to 0.117 mg/L. The highest concentration of total chromium was observed at Saruabil mine region which is exceeding the stipulated standard. But the toxic potential could not be assessed as total chromium is containing both Cr (VI) and Cr (III). Further investigation covering more area by concerned agency who deals with ground water may be recommended.

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Performance of ETP:

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The Sample Collected by the OSPCB at the ETP of respective operational mines in Sukinda valley were thoroughly inspected in the laboratory and the results shows the presence of hexavalent chromium are within permissible limit. The reports are attached as Annexure IV.

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Observations and Recommendations:

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1. The Contamination of groundwater in the mining area cannot be ruled out as the Cr (VI) can reach the groundwater through the weathering and percolation. The absence of alternative drinking water source in the Sukinda valley makes the people bound to be dependent on ground water. Hence, there is a challenge for supply of drinking water to the residents of this area.

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It is also learnt that many mine operators are supplying drinking water to local people under their CSR programme. The committee feels that the extraction of ground water for supplying to the resident without assessing the quality may not be always recommended in this area. Clear understanding about ground water table / aquifers from where it is being extracted should be ensured, otherwise the water to be supplied should be treated for contaminants if any.

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2. The Extent of contamination of ground water in the different regions of Sukinda valley and surrounding area is matter of further investigation by a competent agency.

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3. Committee also noted that the lack of evidence in the petition and subsequent investigation report of medical authority suggests that drawing correlation with contamination of Chromium (VI) and cause of death due to kidney failure may be bias conclusion.

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4. Further it may also be noted that iron and coliform concentration above the permissible limit even nowhere related to kidney related disease with fatal consequences.

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This Tribunal considered the report of the Joint Committee on 04.07.2024 and noticed that in its report the Joint Committee had given clear finding of Chromium (VI) contamination at nine sampling points and had also given the suggestion that the extent of contamination of ground water in the different regions of Sukinda Valley and surrounding area is a matter of further investigation by the competent agency. This Tribunal questioned as to why the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) did not consider itself to be competent agency and further investigate the matter on its own. This Tribunal also noticed that in the report of the Joint Committee remedial suggestions were not given but in view of specific findings given by the Joint Committee this Tribunal considered it to be the responsibility of the State Government to provide potable drinking water to the residents of the different regions of Sukinda Valley and the surrounding area free from Chromium (VI) pollution or pollution from any other hazardous mineral and directed the Government of Odisha and respondent no.3-CGWB to file affidavits in this regard. 7. In compliance thereof, respondent no.5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur filed affidavit dated 13.08.2024. In his affidavit respondent no.5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur referred to the report of the Joint Committee and also mentioned that the Joint Committee found that Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) of respective mines in Sukinda Valley were functional and that Laboratory test reports suggested that the presence of Chromium Hexavalent (VI) in area was within permissible limit. Respondent no.5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur also referred to enquiry conducted by District Public Health Officer, Jajpur and Additional Public Health Officer (Disease Control), Jajpur and detailed enquiry report submitted by them that out of alleged death cases only 2 persons viz. Sunil Kumar Sahoo, aged about 42

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years and Laxmipriya Nayak, aged about 88 years have died due to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

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In his affidavit respondent no.5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur mentioned that safe drinking water facilities had been provided through Mega Piped Water Supply Project to the 38341 populated 9669 households of 33 villages coming under seven Gram Panchayats of the Chromite mining area and also mentioned that 561 tubewells were also existing in these seven Gram Panchayats and were in running condition. 9. Respondent no.3-CGWB filed affidavit dated 11.08.2024 mentioning that respondent no.3-CGWB has taken up a study in Sukinda Mining area to examine the extent of Chromium concentration in ground water. The study is on-going and will be completed by March, 2025.

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On completion of the study, CGWB filed affidavit dated 10.07.2025 enclosing therewith copy of report on Ground Water Quality in Sukinda Valley Jajpur District, Odisha. The relevant part of the report reads as

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under:-

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“ 1.0 Introduction

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In pursuant to the OA No. 73/2024/EZ filed before the Hon'ble National Green Tribunal (NGT), Eastern Zone Bench, Kolkata; the Hon'ble NGT has constituted a joint committee vide its hearing dated 21.03.2024 comprising of the following members to enquire into the allegations made in the said OA related to water pollution in Sukinda Valley and submit a fact finding report:-

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i. Senior Scientist, Odisha Pollution Control Board,

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ii. Senior Scientist, Central Pollution Control Board,

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iii.Senior Officer, Central Ground Water Board, and

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iv. Collector & District Magistrate, Jajpur, or his representative not below the rank of Additional District Magistrate.

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The joint committee has submitted the fact-finding report before the Hon'ble NGT with finding of the Chromium (VI) contamination at nine sampling points and also gave the suggestion that the extent of contamination of ground water in the different regions of Sukinda Valley and surrounding area is a matter of further investigation by the competent agency. The Hon'ble NGT vide its hearing dated 04.07.2024 directed the Central Ground Water Board to further investigate the matter on its own and to file affidavit showing what action has been taken on the Report of the Joint Inspection Committee.

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Following the directions of the Hon'ble NGT, the Central Ground Water Board, Bhubaneswar has taken up a study to establish the extent of Cr (VI) contamination in ground water in Sukinda Valley area. The study area covers the Sukinda Chromite Valley along with its buffers having a geographical area of around 180 square kilometres and is located in Sukinda block, Jajpur district of Odisha state. The area falls between north latitudes 21.0540 & 21.1120 and east longitudes 85.9000 &

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85.6860 (Plate-1). The area receives good amount of rainfall with an annual average precipitation of 1800 mm.

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The area known as Sukinda ultramafic field is famous for its Chromite reserve which accounts for around 95% of the chromite reserve of the country which are associated with the ultramafic complexes. The Chromite ore is mined in the area through mostly opencast method by various private and public sector companies.

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The Sukinda ultramafic field is confined to an east-west trending valley lying between the Daitari hill range in the north and the Mahagiri range in the south. The area has a width of 2 to 5 km and extends for a length of nearly 25 km in an ENE WSW direction with general slope from north east to south west. The drainage or natural water channels in the area is towards North West and it finally joins the Damsala Nalla which is flowing NE-SW and is the main drainage in the area. The Damsala Nala crosses the valley along the length and joins the River Brahmani that finally meets the Bay of Bengal.

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2.0 Geology and Hydrogeology

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Geologically the area is underlain by quartzites, ultramafics- mainly dunite, peridotite & pyroxenites, schists & phyllites and younger granites of Iron Ore Super Group. The Iron Ore Super Group possesses schists, phyllites and quartzites which were later intruded by ultramafic complex consisting of dunite, peridotite & pyroxenites in the Sukinda Valley. These ultramafics have been extremely weathered into a mass of talc, serpentinite and limonite which have been subsequently lateritised during quaternary period. The chromite ores occur as bands within the ultramafic body.

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The occurrence and distribution of ground water in an area are governed by the underlying geological formations and hydrogeological characteristics of the surroundings. The hydrogeology of the area broadly describes the disposition of water bearing formations, occurrence of ground water and their yield potentials, ground water regime conditions in terms of depth to water levels.

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Hydrogeologically the area is having two aquifers, the upper phreatic (unconfined) and the deeper semi-confined aquifer. Ground water in the area occurs both in phreatic and semi-confined conditions. The upper weathered portion of the crystalline rocks forms the phreatic aquifer. Phreatic aquifer occurs in entire area except rocky outcrops and has formed by the weathering of crystalline formations. This aquifer generally occurs down to a depth of 20 meter below ground level (mbgl) with maximum depth of up to 30 mbgl in certain areas and ground water is extracted from this aquifer mostly through dug wells (DW). The depth of the dug wells goes up to maximum of 15 mbgl.

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Below the phreatic aquifer, ground water occurs in the fractures and joints within the crystalline rocks which form the semi-confined aquifer in the area. Ground water from this aquifer is extracted mainly through hand pumps (HP) and bore wells (BW). The depth of the hand pumps usually goes up to 60 mbgl and bore wells up to 120 mbgl. Ground water in the area has been extracted through dug welis, hand pumps and bore wells for both domestic as well as agricultural purpose by the local public.

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To study the hydrogeology of the area, water levels in the area have been measured through 26 nos. of dug wells and 27 nos. of hand pumps during both pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons in the year 2024. The water levels measured through dug wells represent the phreatic aquifer and the water levels measured through hand pumps represent the deeper semi confined aquifer in the area. The analysis of water levels measured in the area show that in the phreatic aquifer, the depth to water level during pre-monsoon season varies from 2.26 meter to 12.12 meter below ground level with an average water level of 6.8 mbgl (plate2). Similarly depth to water level during post-monsoon season in this

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aquifer varies from 0.51 meter to 8.65 meter below ground level with an average water level of 4.28 mbg) (plate-3) in the area. Similarly, in the semi-confined aquifer, the depth to water level during pre-monsoon season varies from 2.8 meter to 18.4 meter below ground level with an average water level of 9.4 mbgL (plate-4) and during postmonsoon season the depth to water level varies from 1.65 meter to 16.1 meter below ground level with an average water level of 7.1 mbgl (plate5) in the area.

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The depth to water levels in the semi-confined aquifer remain deeper as compared to the phreatic aquifer during both pre- and post-monsoon seasons. There has been a rise of water levels during post-monsoon season as compared to the pre-monsoon season in both phreatic as well as in the semi-confined aquifers as a result of recharge due to rainfall in the area. The ground water flow direction in the area is towards southwest. The Damasala Nala gets its flow from ground water system which is effluent in nature. The hydrogeology of the study area is shown in plate-6.

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3.0 Water Sampling and Analysis

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in order to study the quality of water in Sukinda Valley, 233 water samples were collected from different locations in the study area during field investigation in the year 2024. Out of 233 samples, 183 were collected during pre-monsoon season and 50 were collected during postmonsoon season. Post-monsoon sampling was primarily conducted at locations that showed elevated Cr(VI) concentrations exceeding 0.05 mg/l during the pre-monsoon season, along with a few additional sites in the surrounding areas. Spatially, the samples were collected both from areas in close proximity to the mines and from locations up to 6 km away. The samples were collected from hand pumps, bore wells, dug wells, effluent treatment plants (ETP) and mine pits of different mining companies. The location of the samples is presented in plate-7. In addition to these groundwater samples, samples were also collected from surface water bodies like pond, Damsala Nala and Bramhani River to assess the quality. Multiple samples were collected from different sources from the same village to study the quality of water during both pre- and post-monsoon seasons. The collections of samples were also carried out from both dug wells as well as from hand pumps to ascertain the quality of water in two different aquifers available in the area. All samples were collected in accordance with the standard procedure and analysed for the parameters like, pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Hardness, Total Alkalinity, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Carbonate, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Sulphate, Nitrate and Fluoride by following the standard procedures laid down in "Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 23rd Edition, American Public Health Association (APHA), 2017 in CGWB's Regional Chemical Laboratory. The samples were also analysed for concentration of chromium (VI) and were determined colorimetrically using the diphenylcarbazide method, as per EPA Method 7196. The location and source of sampling sites are given in table-1.

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Table-1: Location and source of samples collected from Sukinda Valley

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No.	Village	Number of Sources	Groun Sourc	d Water e		Surfac Source	e Wate	r	Mine
			DW	TW/BW	HP	River	Pond	Mine Pit	ETP Inlet	ETP Outlet	WTP
1.	Aradapal	3	1		2
2.	Badakhaman	1			1

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3.	Balipada	17			15	2
4.	Balipura	4			2						2
5.	Benagadia	7	2		5
6.	Bhimtanagar	15	1		14
7.	Chingudipal	6	2		3	1
8.	Chirgunia	5	1	1	2	1
9.	Chrome nagar	1				1
10.	Dhabahall	4	1		3
11.	Ghagiasahi	3			1	2
12.	Guakata	1			1
13. 14.	Gurujang Gurujangpal	3 3	1		3 1	1
15.	Hatihudi	4			2	1					1
16.	Kakudia	3	1		2
17.	Kalarangi	1		1
18.	Kalarangiata	6			4			2
19.	Kaliapani	18	2	2	5	2	2	2	2	1
20.	Kamarda	7		2	2				2	1
21.	Kansa	8	3	2	3
22.	Katapurti	4	1		2	1
23.	Kendubani	3	1		2
24.	Kendupura	1				1
25.	Koipasi	1			1
26.	Kuchilabanka	2				2
27.	Mahagiri	7		3					2	1	1
28.	New kamarda	2			2
29.	Ostopal	22		4	13	1	1		2	1
30.	Patna	4			4
31.	Podaora	1			1
32.	Ragada	7	1		5		1
33.	Raighat	2	1		1

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34.	Rangamatia	4	2		2
35.	Saruabil	16	2		9	2		2	1
36.	Sukinda	6		1	2			2	1
37.	Sukrungi	2	1		1
38.	Talangi	7			7
39.	Tungetuni	6	1		3	1	1
40.	Bherubania	2	1			1
41.	Deyanabil	1				1
42.	Jaypur	1				1
43.	Koriapal	3	1		1	1
44.	Kuchilabanka	1			1
45.	Kusumaguta	3	1		1	1
46.	Mathanuagaon	2			1	1
47.	Nilakanthapur	1				1
48.	Palaspitha	1	1
49.	Punnottampur	1				1
	Total	233	29	16	131	26	5	4 12	6	1 3

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4.0 Results and Discussion

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The groundwater quality in Sukinda Valley is assessed in accordance with test results of the physico-chemical characteristics and chromium (VI) concentration of analyzed samples and is discussed below. 4.1 Physico-Chemical Parameters

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All analyzed samples were within the permissible limits for drinking water based on basic parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, Sulphate, Nitrate, Chloride, Fluoride, and total dissolved solids (TDS). The TDS ranged from 19.6 to 611.1 mg/l, indicating mostly fresh to slightly mineralized water. This suggests limited mineral dissolution under natural aquifer conditions. Notably, there were no significant water quality changes observed in the post-monsoon in comparison to pre-monsoon periods. Almost all parameters remained static without much significant variation. The minimum, maximum and mean of physico-chemical characteristics of groundwater samples, collected from the study area are presented in the table-2.

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Table-2: Minimum, maximum and mean of Physico-chemical parameters of water samples of the Sukinda Valley area

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Parameters	Permissible Limit (BIS, IS 10500:2012)	Maximum	Minimum	Mean
pH	6.5-8.5	8.34	6.3	7.4
Electrical Conductivity µS/cm at 25°C	----	1411	32.0	283.4

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Total Dissolved Solids, mg/l	2000	611.1	19.6	151.3
Hardness, as CaCO3, mg/l	600	_415.7 _	12.3	130.9
Total Alkalinity, as CaCO3, mg/1	600	335.3	15.0	129.4
Calcium, mg/l	200	91.19	2.5	16.9
Magnesium, mg/l	100	71.28	1.5	21.5
Sodium, mg/l	----	97.4	0.3	8.2
Potassium, mg/l	----	48.3	0.1	3.0
Carbonate, mg/1	----	0	0.0	0.0
Bicarbonate, mg/l	---	409.1	18.3	157.9
Chloride, mg/l	1000	180.5	0.8	9.6
Sulphate, mg/1	400	181.2	0.1	9.3
Nitrate, mg/l	45	40.3	0.1	5.8
Fluoride, mg/l	1.5	0.55	0.0	_0.1 _

¶124

Perusal of the analysis results of the ground water samples show that all the physicochemical parameters are well within the maximum permissible limit for drinking water as per IS 10500:2012.

¶125

4.2 Chromium (VI) concentration

¶126

Chromium mostly exists in two stable states in nature, i.e. hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) and trivalent chromium Cr(III). In natural water systems, Cr(III) usually appears as Cr³, Cr(OH)^2+, Cr(OH) 2⁺ , or Cr(OH) 4^- . It is poorly soluble and tends to precipitate as Cr(OH)3, especially at pH values between 6 and 12, limiting its mobility (Rai et al., 1987).

¶127

Cr(VI) is more hazardous. It exists in forms like HCrO 4^2- and Cr 2 O 7^2- , depending on pH and redox conditions. Cr(VI) is highly soluble, mobile, and toxic, and although often associated with industries like tanning and electroplating, it can also form naturally via oxidation of Cr(III) by manganese oxides (Godgul & Sahu, 1995). Laboratory experiments confirm that alkaline and oxidizing conditions, which are common in Sukinda's lateritic overburden, favour the conversion of Cr(III) to Cr(VI) (Godgul, 1994; Godgul & Sahu, 1995).

¶128

The toxicity and mobility of Cr depends on its speciation. The Cr(III) is mostly immobile; however, Cr(VI) is highly toxic as it is easily soluble and mobile and adversely affect the environment beyond its permissible limit. The permissible limit of Cr(VI) has been set by different organizations for different media viz. soil, drinking water, industrial sewage etc. According to Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) permissible limit of Cr(VI), for drinking water is 0.05 mg/l.

¶129

Sukinda Valley receives an annual rainfall of around 1,800 mm, with nearly 80% occurring during the monsoon (June-September). When rainwater interacts with exposed chromite ore, hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] can leach into open mine pits. Cr(VI) concentrations in these mine pits water generally shows value, which is well above the safe limit of 0.05 mg/litre for drinking water set by the BIS.

¶130

A total of 233 water samples, collected from various sources during both pre- and post-monsoon seasons, were analyzed for hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] Of these, 39 samples showed Cr(Vl) concentrations exceeding 0.05 mg/l in at least one of the seasons. The test results of

¶131

¶132

samples with chromium (VI) above 0.05mg / l collected from the Sukinda Valley are given in the Table-3. All the ground water samples collected from dug wells in the area have Cr (VI) concentration below detection limit (BDL).

¶133

Table-3: Location of samples showing concentration of Cr(VI) more than 0.05 mg/1

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Sl. No	District	Block	Village	Source	Longitude	Latitude	Concentra Cr(VI) in m Pre- monsoon	tion of g/l Post- monsoo n
1.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Kamarda Mines Inlet	ETP inlet	85.82639	21.06333	0.079	0.1247
2.	Jajpur	Danagadi	Mahagiri Inlet	ETP inlet	85.77588	21.03115	0.1022	0.111
3.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Ostopal Iniet	ETP inlet	85.79042	21.05996	1.861	0.7217
4.	Jajpur	Sukinda	S. Kallapani mine inlet	ETP inlet	85,77843	21.04663	0.601	0.3058
5.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Saruabil inlet	ETP inlet	85.82075	21.05867	0.875	0.4608
6.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Sukinda Mine TATAinlet	ETP inlet	85.74322	21.02156	0.91	0.7915
7.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Balipada 3	HP	85.83184	21.06969	0.0705	0.0601
8.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Balipada 4	HP	85.82621	21.06893	0.2921	0.0456
9.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Balipada 5	HP	85.82558	21.06732	0.0809	0.0601
10.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Balipada 6	HP	85.82574	21.06763	0.133	0.1194
11.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Balipura Villae	HP	85.83441	21.06996	0.0734	0.0553
12.	Jajpur	Sukinda	g Bhimtangar	HP	85.73725	21.01972	0.139	0.1522
13.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 4	HP	85.73688	21.01974	0.0445	0.094
14.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 5	HP	85.73718	21.0206	0.0423	0.1404
15.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 1	HP	85.73825	21.01975	0.1568	0.0116
16.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 2	HP	85.73582	21.01974	0.085	0.0648
17.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 3	HP	85.73535	21.02021	0.094	0.0648
18.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 6	HP	85.73656	21.02009	0.0804	0.0744
19.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 7	HP	85.73656	21.02009	0.0862	0.0812
20.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Bhimtangar 8	HP	85.73578	21.02001	0.112	0.0841
21.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Kamarda	HP	85.83567	21.06035	0.1551	0.1404
22.	Jajpur	Sukinda	New Kamarda	HP	85.83798	21.0612	0.0815	0.0965
23.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Ostopal	HP	85.79572	21.06553	0.688	0.6715
24.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Ostopal 2	HP	85.7876	21.0579	0.3545	0.3122
25.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Ostopal 3	HP	85.80096	21.06154	0.3546	0.2765
26.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Patna 2	HP	85.7695	21.06582	0.4105	0.3993
27.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Saruabil	HP	85.81069	21.05721	0.1365	0.0482
28.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Saruabill	HP	85.81056	21.05806	0.0962	0.0466
29.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Kalarangiatta Minepit	Mine pit	85.74167	21.01892	0.6037	0.59

¶135

¶136

30.	Jajpur	Sukinda	S Kallapani Quarry F	Mine pit	85.79981	21.0412	0.6543	0.6205
31.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Chingudipal	Damsala Nala	85.77329	21.05104	0.7313	0.0417
32.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Chirgunia	Damsala Nala	85.75855	21.0434	0.09	0.0302
33.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Ghagiasahi	Damsala Nala	85.74094	21.03551	0.067	0.19
34.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Kallapani	Damsala Nala	85.77226	21.04578	0.1984	0.032
35.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Kallapani	Damsala Nala	85.77229	21.04584	0.1986	0.0374
36.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Katapurti	Damsala Nala	85.73861	21.03059	0.4502	0.035
37.	Dhenkanal	Kankadahada	Kuchilabanka	Damsala Nala	85.72455	21.01722	0.06	0.0703
38.	Dhenkanal	Kankadahada	Kusumaguta	Damsala Nala	85.72075	21.00532	0.12	0.0383
39.	Jajpur	Sukinda	Oastapal	Damsala Nala	85.7841	21.05401	0.0884	0.0442

¶137

Out of 183 samples collected during pre-monsoon period from different sources, 37 samples have Cr (VI) concentration more than 0.05 mg/l. Out of these 37 samples having Cr (VI) above permissible limit (>0.05 mg/litre), 20 are from hand pumps (HPs), 6 are from effluent treatment plant (ETP) inlets, 2 are from mine pits and 9 are from Damsala river. Similarly out of 50 samples collected from different sources during postmonsoon period, 28 samples have Cr (VI) concentration more than 0.05 mg/l. Out of these 28 samples having Cr (VI) above permissible limit (>0.05 mg/litre), 18 number are from hand pumps (HPs), 6 number are from ETP inlets, 2 number are from mine pits and 2 number are from Damsala river. The samples collected from surface water source (Damsala river) show concentration of Cr(V|)> 0.05mg / l during premonsoon season, whereas the concentration in most of the samples is within the permissible limit during post-monsoon season.

¶138

Table-4: Source wise samples analysed vs samples with Cr(VI) > 0.05mg / I

¶139

Sl. No	Source	Pre-monsoon		Post-monsoo	n
		No. of samples analysed	Samples with Cr(VI)>0.05 mg/l	No. of samples analysed	Samples with Cr(VI)>0.05 mg/l
1.	DW	28	0	1	0
2.	BW	11	0	5	0
3.	HP	99	20	_31 _	18
4.	Damsala Nala	23	9	4	2
5.	Mine Pit	2	2	2	2
6.	Pond	5	0	0	0
7.	ETP Inlet	6	6	6	6
8.	ETP-Outlet	6	0	0	0
9.	WTP	1	0	0	0
10.	Spring	2	0	1	0
	Total	183	_37 _	50	28

¶140

The water collected in the mine pits through rainfall and seepage of ground water is pumped out for facilitation of mining activities. These pumped water have been treated in ETPs of different mining companies before release in the Damsala Nala. The Cr (VI) concentration in water samples collected from the outlets of these ETPs is below detection limit (BDL).

¶141

The Damsala Nala, the stream draining the valley, receives treated effluent from the Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) and is frequently used by local villagers for purposes other than drinking like bathing and recreational activities. Water samples were collected from various locations during the study period revealed that chromium concentration

¶142

¶143

was exceeding 0.05mg/l in many places there by exceeding the Bureau of Indian Standards acceptable limit (0.05mg/l). However, elevated chromium concentrations exceeding 0.05 mg/l in Damsala Nala are restricted to its stretch within the Sukinda Valley area. Beyond the valley, both at upstream and downstream, the concentration does not exceed the permissible limit. The samples collected from Bramhani River downstream the valley area show total Chromium concentration below detection limit (BDL).

¶144

At most monitoring sites, chromium levels in groundwater remained relatively stable across both daily and seasonal timescales. In locations where consecutive-day sampling was carried out, no significant variations were detected. Overall, the fluctuations observed were minimal. This consistent pattern in chromium concentration suggests the presence of a steady, naturally occurring (geogenic) source. Chromium (VI) contamination was absent in shallow, unconfined (phreatic) aquifers, indicating that the phreatic zone remain relatively free from contaminations. This suggests that deeper semi-confined aquifers in the area are more vulnerable due to longer residence time and deeper oxidation mechanisms.

¶145

5.0 Conclusion and Recommendations

¶146

The Sukinda Valley area has phreatic aquifer up to a depth of 30 meter below ground level followed by fractured deeper aquifer. A total number of 233 samples were collected from the study area and analysed. The samples were collected from hand pumps, dug wells, Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) mine pits, Damsala Nala and Brahmani River. In addition to these groundwater samples, samples were also collected from surface water body (pond, spring and river), to assess the quality. Out of 233 samples, 37 samples have shown higher concentration of chromium (VI) above 0.05 mg/l during pre-monsoon and 28 locations have shown chromium (VI) above 0.05 mg/l during post-monsoon season. The findings and recommendations to prevent the ground water contaminations in the area are as follows.

¶147

1. The upper phreatic aquifer (up to 30 mbgl) is free from Cr (VI) contamination, this zone may be tapped for drinking and domestic water supply purpose after ensuring quality of every individual source.

¶148

2. While the shallow phreatic aquifers are free from chromium contamination, determining the precise extent of contamination in the deeper aquifers remains challenging. Wells drilled to similar depths in close proximity exhibiting vastly different levels of Cr(VI) results in an unpredictable spatial pattern. This variability, coupled with the absence of consistent anthropogenic sources, suggests that the natural oxidative mobilization of Cr(VI) from chromite-bearing strata is the primary mechanism driving the contamination and is suggestive of the geogenic origin.

¶149

3. It is essential to expand and strengthen the safe drinking water supply schemes to ensure the provision of safe water to the local population.

¶150

4. Contaminated wells should be permanently closed to prevent public exposure to unsafe water sources.

¶151

5. If new wells are constructed, they must be subject to periodic water quality monitoring to ensure the safe quality of the water.

¶152

6. The Cr (VI) concentration in water samples collected from the outlets of the ETPS of different mining companies is below detection limit (BDL). 7. Effluent treatment systems in the mining areas must be strictly maintained to ensure effective treatment and compliance with discharge standards. This is crucial to prevent contamination of nearby surface water bodies.

¶153

8. Elevated chromium concentrations exceeding 0.05 mg/l in Damsala Nala are restricted to its stretch within the Sukinda Valley area. Beyond the valley, both at upstream and downstream, the concentration of Cr

¶154

¶155

(VI) does not exceed the permissible limit. Samples collected from Bramhani River downstream the Sukinda Valley area show Chromium concentration below detection limit (BDL).

¶156

9. Ultramafic, chromite-rich regions like the Sukinda Valley require rigorous and continuous water quality management to mitigate environmental degradation and associated public health risks.”

¶157

11. Respondent no.4-CPCB adopted the Joint Committee Report and did

¶158

not file any separate response/reply.

¶159

The Odisha State Pollution Control Board filed additional affidavit dated 12.05.2025. The relevant part of the additional affidavit reads as under:-

¶160

“x x x x a) Sukinda Valley in Jajpur District, Odisha, hosts one of the most significant chromite belts in India, extending approximately 20 km and accounting for nearly 97% of the country's chromite reserves. Seventeen chromite mines are located within the valley, of which eleven are currently operational. These are open cast mines, and to facilitate mining operations, strata water accumulated in the mine pits is often pumped out as mine drainage water. Further, surface runoff from overburden dumps, haul roads, and stackyards also goes out, especially during rains. All the mines have their own ETPs for treatment of the mine drainage water, which is ultimately discharged to Damsala nalla.

¶161

b) Due to geogenic presence of chromium in the Sukinda valley, the mine drainage water and surface runoff contains chromium in hexavalent (Cr6+) form and therefore minimisation of Cr6+ in the discharge water has been the main environmental concern. Under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the discharge standard for Cr6+ in mine drainage water is set at 0.1 mg/l. Recognizing the elevated health risks, the R-2 Board revised this standard to a more stringent 0.05 mg/l effective from 09.03.2015 and communicated the same to all the operating Mines of Sukinda Valley vide Board's letter No.3720 (10) dtd.09.03.2015. Copy of the letter dtd.09.03.2015 is annexed to this affidavit and marked as ANNEXURE - R2/2.

¶162

c) In response to persistent contamination of Damsala Nallah, SPCB commissioned a study through IIT Kharagpur and recommended upgradation of individual Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) at each mine. It was also recommended to divert surface runoff from broken-up lease areas (dumps, roads, stackyards) to the ETPs for treatment prior to discharge. SPCB conducts fortnightly monitoring of inlet and outlet water quality at the operational ETPs. The treated effluent consistently conforms to the revised discharge standard of 0.05 mg/l for Cr6+. The affidavit filed by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) also confirms that the discharge quality from each of the mine is confirming the prescribed standards.

¶163

d) Analysis of water samples from Damsala river during 2018 to October 2025 reveals a consistent downward trend in Cr6+ concentration, both temporally and spatially. The average concentration has reduced from 0.087 mg/l in 2018 to 0.033 mg/l in 2025 (Fig-1), remaining within the tolerance limit prescribed for Class-C rivers under IS 2296:1982. This has been possible due to timely interventions by SPCB and regular monitoring and surveillance. The fact that Cr6+ in the shallow wells and borewells

¶164

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up to 30 m depth is within acceptable norms as mentioned in the affidavit submitted by CGWB also in agreement with the actions taken up by SPCB.

¶166

e) It is therefore concluded that through strategic interventions including ETP upgradation, runoff diversion, and rigorous monitoring, SPCB has successfully mitigated the environmental impact of Cr6+ in the Sukinda valley. Further, presence of Cr6+ in ground water beyond 30 m depth as verified by CGWB is geogenic and SPCB has hardly any role to play. As suggested by CGWB, all the deep bore wells where, Cr6+ is observed beyond permissible limits, should be sealed and alternate drinking water supply may be made.”

¶167

Vide order dated 15.07.2025, respondent no.5- the Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur, Odisha was directed to file affidavit with regard to implementation of recommendations suggested in report of the CGWB.

¶168

In compliance thereof, the respondent no.5- the Collector and District Magistrate filed additional affidavit dated 15.01.2026. The relevant part of the additional affidavit reads as under:-

¶169

“3. That, it is most humbly submitted here that the observations and recommendations suggested in the affidavit dated 10.07.2025 filed by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) at Point No. 5(1), 5(2), 5(5), 5(6) and 5(7) will be mandatorily complied to ensure the sustained safety of the water supplied to the inhabitants.

¶170

4. That, this is to further humbly submit here that basing on the recommendation at Point No. 5(3) and 5(4) of the said affidavit, the Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply & Sanitation (RWSS) Division, Jajpur has undertaken the following time-bound actions:

¶171

I. Provision of Safe Drinking Water: A Mega Piped Water Supply Project is now fully functional in the Sukinda block. The local population in the affected areas is being supplied safe drinking water through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs), compliant with BIS IS 10500:2012 standards. This ensures an alternative and safe source of water for domestic consumption.

¶172

11. Permanent Closure of Contaminated Sources: The CGWB report identified 22 tube wells across 07 villages in 03 Gram Panchayats where water samples showed Chromium (VI) concentration above the permissible limit of 0.05 mg/l. In pursuance of the directions of this answering deponent, the Assistant Engineer, RWSS, Sukinda, along with his team, visited all 22 locations on 16.11.2025. Subsequently, all 22 identified contaminated hand pumps were permanently removed and the sources sealed with the assistance of the local administration on 11.12.2025 to prevent any further public exposure.

¶173

5. That, basis the recommendations at Point No. 5(8) and 5(9) of the said affidavit, this is to most humbly submit here that the Superintending Engineer, Drainage Division, Jajpur has reported on the contamination of the Damsala Nallah, which passes through villages including Chingudipal, Chirgunia, Ghagashali, and others. The report confirms that water samples from the

¶174

¶175

nallah show Chromium concentration exceeding 0.05 mg/L.. Damsala Nallah is primarily a drainage channel for the discharge of excess rainwater, surface runoff, and agricultural runoff into nearby rivers. It is not designated or intended for domestic use or as a source of drinking water.

¶176

Upon receiving the report, the Superintending Engineer. Drainage Division, Jajpur has undertaken extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities. These include sensitizing the local population, erecting hoardings and signages at prominent locations, and creating widespread awareness among the villagers, explicitly warning them that the water of the Damsala Nallah is contaminated and unfit for human or animal consumption. The District Administration and the concerned Block development authorities have also been formally communicated regarding this contamination for necessary action.”

¶177

We have heard submissions made by Mr. Sankar Prasad Pani and Mr. Ashutosh Padhy, learned Counsels for the applicant, Mr. Padmesh Mishra, learned Special Counsel for respondents no.1 and 5, Mr. Dipanjan Ghosh, learned Counsel for respondent no.2, Mr. Ashok Prasad, learned Counsel for respondent no.3 and Mr. Rajib Ray, learned Counsel for respondent no.4 and we have gone through the material on record carefully.

¶178

As mentioned by respondent no. 2-OSPCB in its affidavit dated 12.11.2025, Sukinda Valley in Jajpur District, Odisha, hosts one of the most significant chromite belts in India, extending approximately 20 km and accounting for nearly 97 % of the country’s chromite reserves. Seventeen Chromite mines are located within the valley, of which eleven are currently operational. These are open cast mines, and to facilitate mining operations, strata water accumulated in the mine pits is often pumped out as mine drainage water. Further, surface runoff from overburden dumps, haul roads, and stackyards also goes out, especially during rains. All the mines have their own ETPs for treatment of the mine drainage water, which is ultimately discharged to Damsala nalla. 17. The Joint Committee constituted by this Tribunal has referred to the research published by International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health on 28.07.2020 that Cr (VI) is a toxic form, having probable health impact causing liver and kidney related ailments, internal

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¶180

hemorrhage, and respiratory disorders. Cr (VI) has been characterized as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Cr (VI) can enter the body through both inhalation and ingestion route.

¶181

The Joint Committee has mentioned that respondent no.2-OSPCB has implemented stringent standards for industrial operation and to have made operating mining industries responsible for treatment of mining seepage and the monsoon runoff collected in mining pit. 19. The Joint Committee constituted by this Tribunal inspected all the 11 mining sites in the Sukinda valley on the 30.04.2024, examined the ETP design status, adopted treatment methods and its disposal, installed online monitoring devices and its function along with performance of ETP with respect to removal efficiency of Cr (VI). OSPCB had collected samples at the inlet and outlet of ETPs of various operational mines and the laboratory results showed the presence of Hexavalent Chromium within permissible limits. The Joint Committee did not find substantial material to establish a relationship of deaths to Chromium (VI) contaminated groundwater. The main discharge area of treated effluent in mining industry in Sukinda Valley is stated to be Damsala Nalla but the analysis reports of samples collected by OSPCB showed the range of Chromium (VI) to be within permissible limits.

¶182

However, the Joint Committee found the extent of transmission of contaminants in groundwater to be a matter of further investigation. Since the contamination of the groundwater could not be ruled out the Joint Committee recommended supply of drinking water free from contamination to residents of the area. 21. In compliance of order dated 04.07.2024 passed by this Tribunal respondent no.3-CGWB conducted the requisite study and filed the study report which has been reproduced in earlier part of this Judgment.

¶183

¶184

In compliance of direction given by this Tribunal vide order dated 15.07.2025 respondent no.5- Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur filed affidavit dated 16.01.2026 undertaking that the observations and recommendations suggested in the affidavit dated 10.07.2025 filed by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) at Point No. 5(1), 5(2), 5(5), 5(6) and 5(7) will be mandatorily complied to ensure the sustained safety of the water supplied to the inhabitants.

¶185

Respondent no.5- Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur has mentioned in affidavit dated 16.01.2026 that a Mega Piped Water Supply Project is now fully functional in the Sukinda block. The local population in the affected areas is being supplied safe drinking water through Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs), compliant with BIS IS 10500:2012 standards and that all 22 identified contaminated hand pumps were permanently removed and the sources sealed with the assistance of the local administration on 11.12.2025 to prevent any further public exposure.

¶186

However, it may be observed that, as mentioned in the study report conducted by CGWB, out of 233 samples, 37 samples had shown higher concentration of Chromium (VI) above 0.05 mg/l during pre-monsoon and 28 locations have shown Chromium (VI) above 0.05 mg/l during postmonsoon season. Respondent no.3-CGWB has not identified the causes and respondent no.5- Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur has not mentioned the remedial measures taken pursuant thereto.

¶187

In view of the above discussed facts and circumstances of the case, the present original application is disposed of with the following directions:-

¶188

(i) State of Odisha through Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, respondent no. 5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur and Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation

¶189

¶190

(RWSS) Division, Jajpur are directed to expand and strengthen the safe drinking water supply schemes to ensure the provision of safe water to the local population;

¶191

(ii) Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) Division, Jajpur is directed to carry out periodical sampling of the water supplied for analysis of the quality thereof to ensure that the same is free from contamination including contamination of Cr(VI);

¶192

(iii) Respondents no. 3-CGWB and Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) Division, Jajpur are directed to periodically inspect and identify contaminated water bodies, old or new wells constructed and hand pumps etc., and to ensure that the same are subjected to appropriate treatment or permanently closed, as the case may be, to prevent public exposure to unsafe water sources;

¶193

(iv) Respondents no. 3-CGWB and Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) Division, Jajpur are directed to take requisite steps for installation of arsenic removal plants in the identified affected villages in consultation with respondent no.2OSPCB by utilisation of budgetary allocation or CSR funds as the case may be;

¶194

(v) Respondent no. 2-OSPCB is directed to periodically inspect effluent treatment systems installed in all the chromite mining industries for verifying whether the same are strictly maintained to ensure effective treatment and compliance with discharge standards and in case of violation, to take appropriate punitive, remedial and rehabilitative action in accordance with law by giving concerned Project Proponent opportunity of being heard;

¶195

¶196

(vi) Respondent no. 2-OSPCB is also directed to incorporate in CTO (if not already incorporated) appropriate condition regarding utilisation/re-use of treated water in the chromite mining industries for industrial purposes;

¶197

(vii) Respondent no. 2-OSPCB and Respondent No. 3-CGWB are directed to constitute Joint Teams for periodic inspections for ensuring rigorous and continuous water quality management in Sukinda Valley to mitigate environmental degradation and associated public health risks; and

¶198

(viii) Respondent no. 2-OSPCB and Respondent No. 3-CGWB are directed to upload the periodical inspection/Action Taken Reports on their website.

¶199

In case of any grievance with respect to the non-implementation of the directions given by this Tribunal the applicant shall be at liberty to move this Tribunal by way of appropriate proceedings.

¶200

A copy of this order may be sent to State of Odisha through Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, respondent no. 2-OSPCB, respondent no. 3- CGWB, respondent no. 5-Collector and District Magistrate, Jajpur and Superintending Engineer, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) Division, Jajpur by email for requisite compliance.

¶201

Arun Kumar Tyagi, JM

¶202

Ishwar Singh, EM

¶203

10^th July, 2026 Original Application No.73/2024/EZ AM

¶204

Mantu Das v. State of Odisha

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Mantu Das v. State of Odisha

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