Vedanta Aluminium Responds to Process Water Storage Facility Breach; Prioritises Community Support

Immediate Actions Taken to Control the Situation, No Environmental Impact

In response to the recent breach in a process water storage facility at its Lanjigarh refinery in Odisha, India, Vedanta Aluminium has swiftly implemented containment measures to control the situation and prevent any potential environmental impact.

The breach, which occurred on September 29, 2023, involved the release of approximately 80 cubic meters of process water used in the alumina refining process. Immediate actions were taken to isolate the affected area, deploy containment booms, and initiate cleanup operations.

Community Well-being and Environmental Protection

Focus on Community Health and Safety

Vedanta Aluminium's primary concern is the health and well-being of the local community. The company has been actively engaged with the affected villages, providing medical assistance, food, and other essential supplies. Regular health check-ups are being conducted to ensure the safety of residents.

The company has also set up a dedicated helpline for community members to report any concerns or seek assistance. Vedanta Aluminium is committed to providing ongoing support and addressing the needs of the affected population.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Remediation

Vedanta Aluminium has commissioned an independent environmental impact assessment to determine the extent of the release and its potential effects on the surrounding ecosystem. Preliminary findings indicate that the process water is non-toxic and does not pose a significant environmental hazard.

The company has initiated cleanup operations to remove any residual process water and restore the affected area. Bioremediation techniques, using natural microorganisms to break down the organic matter, are being employed to accelerate the remediation process.

Transparency and Communication

Vedanta Aluminium is committed to transparency and timely communication throughout this incident. The company has been regularly updating the authorities, local communities, and the media on the situation and the actions being taken.

A dedicated website and social media channels have been established to provide real-time information and respond to queries from stakeholders. Vedanta Aluminium encourages open dialogue and welcomes feedback from the community.

Investigation and Accountability

An internal investigation has been launched to determine the root cause of the breach and identify any necessary corrective actions. Vedanta Aluminium is committed to implementing robust safety protocols and improving operational practices to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The company acknowledges the severity of the situation and takes full responsibility for the breach. Vedanta Aluminium is working diligently to address the immediate needs of the community, minimize the environmental impact, and ensure a transparent and accountable response.