Nalco strengthens security measures at bauxite mines

The public sector National Aluminium Company Ltd. (Nalco) has strengthened its security measures in the bauxite mine area located in Panchpatmali Hills of Koraput district following the naxalite attack on 12 April this year.

Security measures have also been augmented at vulnerable point like magazine house, where explosives are stored.

The deployment of CISF personnel has been increased from 89 to 197 in the bauxite mines area. Similarly, special emphasis has been given to fortification of magazine area by providing multi-layer protection system, such as, chain link, concertina, barbed wire, power fencing and brick walls around the magazine house.

Since construction of a barrack or any permanent construction in the vicinity of the magazine house is prohibited, the CISF jawans have been provided with well furnished rest sheds which are equipped with lighting system, wall mounted fan, exhaust fan, air cooler and vinyl flooring to improve the living conditions for jawans deputed on duty to safeguard the explosives.

Besides, two new well furnished sheds, similar to the ones used by defence personnel with folded beds, with cushion, fans, lights and toilet facilities, have been installed. Uninterrupted power supply, aquaguard with cooling system has been installed to provide safe & clean drinking water to the jawans. However, permanent barrack in two blocks with all required facilities exists at a distance of 700 metres from magazine house.

The company has also reduced the storage of explosives significantly at the magazine house. The stock of explosives is kept to the barest minimum sufficient for about 4-5 days consumption. It is exploring the possibilities of “Blast Free” mining methods.