Nalco cuts storage of explosives at bauxite mines

As part of its strategy to strengthen security measures following the attack by Naxalites on its bauxite mines located at Panchpatmali in Koraput district, the public sector National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) has decided to reduce storage of explosives in the magazine house located in the mines area. Accordingly, the stock of explosive materials such as booster-explosives, which was around 21.75 tonnes just one month before the naxalite attack, has been cut to 2.25 tonnes.

Similarly, the stock of column explosives has been brought down from 10.12 tonnes to 1.15 tonnes. The stock of ammonia nitrate has also been brought down from 3.95 tonnes to 0.70 tonnes.

Besides, the stock-holding has been reduced to one tenth of the previous period. This became possible due to the decision of the company to keep stocks sufficient only for 4 to 5 days.

Though it is expected to put additional pressure on the company's logistics system, Nalco has geared up its traffic department to handle the explosives movement efficiently. Reduction in stockpile of explosive will considerably minimize the threat perception for future.

Meanwhile, Nalco has taken a number of steps to augment security arrangements in the mines and refinery complex at Damanjodi. The strength of Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) has been increased from 417 to 682 and more bullet proof jackets with helmets were arranged for security personnel.