Kendrapada: Chromite mining in Sukinda Valley, which holds about 97% of the mineral’s reserves in India, has taken a hit following a diesel shortage amid West Asia tensions, impacting around 10,000 workers engaged in mining-related activities, the senior management of Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), Jajpur, has said.
Diesel Dependency in Chromite Mining
Chromite, a key raw material for stainless steel, is heavily dependent on diesel-run machinery for excavation, pumping and transportation. Mining operations from pumping and excavation to transportation rely entirely on diesel. With supplies falling short, several mines have been forced to scale down activity, says Susant Nayak, senior manager of OMC.
Efforts to Electrify Operations
Major producers are stepping up efforts to electrify operations and reduce dependence on diesel, but smaller mines face the risk of closure as fuel stocks dwindle. Some units have barely 20-40 days of diesel left, raising concerns over possible stand-downs.
Impact on Output and Workers
Abantikanta Pradhan, regional manager of OMC, Jajpur, said daily diesel requirements of around 40,000 litres are now being met with just 20,000-22,000 litres. The shortfall has directly impacted output, he said. The crisis has also hit transporters and ancillary workers. Many truck operators have been forced into idleness, while workers fear imminent closure of mining units. The uncertainty is growing. We hope the government ensures adequate fuel supply at the earliest, said Jagajiban Das, a trade union leader.
Significance of Sukinda Valley
The valley has an estimated 183 million tonnes of chromite deposits and accounts for nearly all of India’s production, with seven open-cast mines and one underground mine in operation. Sukinda Valley, which is among the largest open-cast chromite mining hubs globally, is critical to the country’s metallurgical, refractory and chemical industries. The region hosts mining operations by Tata Steel, Jindal Chromite Mines, IMFA, Balasore Alloys and OMC, among others.
