Rayagada News: JK Paper Mill Accused of Illegally Siphoning Water from Nagabali River
Rayagada, : The JK Paper Mill in Jekepur, Rayagada district, has been accused of illegally siphoning water from the Nagabali River, exceeding the permitted limit. The mill has built an unauthorized anicut (dam) in the river, allegedly using the water for its own purposes.
According to sources, the mill has a contract with the Water Resources Department to use 40,000 liters of water per day for industrial purposes. However, it is alleged that the mill is using 70,000 to 80,000 liters of water daily, far exceeding the permitted limit.
The excessive water siphoning has affected the water supply in several villages downstream, including Kereda, Baising Panchayat, and others. The villagers have complained about the water scarcity and pollution caused by the mill’s activities.
The issue has been raised by local MLA Applaswami Kadraka, who has visited the affected areas and demanded immediate action from the district administration. The MLA has also raised the issue in the Assembly, and the Chief Minister has assured that action will be taken against the mill if it is found to be violating rules.
The JK Paper Mill management has refused to comment on the issue, and the matter is still under investigation.
Reported by Gouri Shankar Pattnaik
