Question : SUPPLY OF BAUXITE TO ALUMINIUM PLANT

(a) whether the supply of Bauxite to Corba Aluminium plant of BALCO has been stopped from Raktidadar, Nanhudadar and Hazaridadar mines of Madhya Pradesh;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether problem of earning livelihood is being faced by the thousands of families due to the closure of these mines;

(d) whether the proposal to extend the lease period of Raktidadar and Nanhudadar mines for a period of five years is lying pending with the Government; and

(e) if so, the time by which the final decision in this regard is likely to be taken so that the problem of thousands of affected families can be solved?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES AND MINERALS

(SMT. RITA VARMA)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) Raktidadar and Nanhoodadar mines were closed following the expiry of mining lease on 11.9.1999, the Bauxite reserves in these mines being almost exhausted. Hazaridadar mines were closed in 1988 following expiry of the mining lease and environment related problems.
(c) After closure, the BALCO employees working at these sites are being shifted to other projects.
(d) No proposal for extension of mining lease period of Raktidadar and Nanhoodadar mines is pending with the Central Government.
(e) Does not arise.