(TOI)
Deputy commissioner (DC) Nancy Sahay on Friday held discussions with Bengwari panchayat farmers from Keredari block and NTPC Keredari mining project officials and issued a slew of strict directives regarding provision of clean drinking water to local residents on priority. The meeting addressed various concerns including water pollution, employment, agriculture, road infrastructure, blasting-related issues, and women’s self-employment initiatives.
Although Bengwari panchayat is not within the mining acquisition zone, it faces direct impact from neighbouring mining activities. Farmers reported agricultural challenges due to declining groundwater levels and river depletion. Sahay instructed NTPC officials to prioritise clean drinking water provision. She said, “The company should ensure basic amenities for locals and conduct household survey for deep boring assessment to secure water availability.”
NTPC agreed to install green netting to control coal dust pollution during truck transportation. Addressing agricultural concerns, she acknowledged the impact of coal mining on water levels and river systems. Regarding employment, she directed priority appointments for the remaining 50 Bengwari panchayat families and future vacancy considerations.
The DC insisted on appropriate and timely remuneration for locally employed workers, suggesting salary hike beyond labour department guidelines to support affected citizens’ livelihoods.
