Expansion project of MSP Metallics in Chhattisgarh underway: 9 villages of Odisha to suffer for pollution!

Jharsuguda, Sept 17: The expansion of MSP Metallics in Chhattisgarh is underway. Chhattisgarh government is all set to chalk out its expansion project adjacent to Odisha’s  Jharsuguda and Sundergarh district. If the project is expanded according to the blueprint  almost set by the Chhattisgarh, as many as 9 villages  of Jharsuguda and Sundergarh will be worst affected by its toxic emission, industrial wastes and other environmental hazards, allege the locals. Sources said, the MSP Metallics which has been  established at Jamagaon village under Raigarh district in Chhattisgarh is causing acute environmental pollution in and around the bordering villages. The plant is discharging toxic industrial wastes to the Mahanadi water causing threats for men, animal and the aquatic beings since its inception. Meanwhile, the row of its expansion project has intensified the concern for the nearby villages. If the plant undertakes its expansion, large envelope of green forests along the Chhatisgarh-Odisha border will be destructed. Similarly, its adverse effect will also harm the mangrove forest along the bank of the Mahanandi. At the same time, the Garjan Forest of Sundergarh which had once upon a time, inherited a rare black tiger will be worst affected, said locals. Anticipating environmental pollution on the habitats, locals opposed the Public Hearing that was scheduled to be held on September 15 in Chhattisgarh jurisdiction. However, the affected villagers were not noticed for any public hearing. Acting on public allegation, Bargarh MP Suresh Pujari had tabled the issue in the Parliament. He urged to stop the expansion process of MSP Metallics anticipating, it will have negative impacts on the lives, livelihood and the environment.