Korba – The phrase “old habits die hard” aptly describes the situation with ash contractors in Korba. Under the Congress government, the influential KK, known to be close to the former CM, allowed many local elites to exploit the ash business, turning them into billionaires. KK’s influence resulted in the city being covered in poisonous ash.
Current Labour Minister Lakhanlal Dewangan, during his election campaign, promised to address this issue, initially taking action against rogue contractors. However, BALCO soon resumed its illegal practices, pressuring contractors to expedite ash removal, leading to a resurgence of reckless operations. Vehicles without fitness certificates, insurance, permits, or proper covers once again roamed the streets, dumping ash indiscriminately. While the district administration occasionally takes action, BALCO and the contractors persist, undermining these efforts.
Recently, under the directives of the District Collector, RTO Inspector CK Sahu led a crackdown resulting in fines of over Rs. 4 lakh against overloaded ash trucks. Despite this, the problem persists, with administration efforts often thwarted by the persistent pressure from BALCO and the contractors.
Ash Everywhere: Land, Air, Water, and Even School Grounds
Vedanta Group’s BALCO has recklessly spread ash across Korba over the past five years, endangering public health. Roads, fields, rivers, and even school grounds are covered in ash, contaminating the environment. The abandoned mines filled with ash create dust storms that infiltrate homes and villages.
Officials and Politicians Reap the Benefits
Ash contractors have profited immensely, with no official or politician left untouched by the corruption. Numerous lives have been lost in accidents involving these ash transport vehicles, yet BALCO and Vedanta have shown no concern or provided compensation. Local representatives, instead of opposing these practices, have benefited from lucrative contracts, allowing the ash trade to continue unabated, even under the new administration.
