Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 14: Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), under its CSR initiative has signed MoUs with the District Administration of Sundargarh on Tuesday for five developmental projects worth Rs 22.64 crore.
The projects include the rejuvenation and beautification of Kata Bandha (Rs 4.32 crore), Brahamani Bandha (Rs 3.98 crore) and Abdul Hussain Bandha (Rs 2.69 crore); freshwater inland aquaculture in mining-affected areas of Hemgir Block (Rs 3.81 crore); and renovation, improvement and construction of tanks under Talsara Assembly Constituency (Rs 7.84 crore) in Sundargarh district.
The General Manager (CSR), MCL, and the District Collector, Sundargarh, signed the MoUs for project implementation by the district administration.
Aligned with the “Amrit Sarovar” mission, the rejuvenation of water bodies will promote water conservation, groundwater replenishment and environmental improvement while developing leisure destinations, supporting small-scale tourism and generating local economic activity.
The works include embankment protection, construction of pathways, bathing steps, stone packing, railings, seating spaces, electrical works and horticulture, aligning with Mission Amrit Sarovar.
The aquaculture project will be implemented in-line with the Prime Ministers’ Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojna which will benefit over 700 small-scale farmers and FPO members through the development of 50 new ponds and renovation of 20 existing ponds.
Besides, it also includes formation of women-led fish seed production units and Custom Hiring Centres, an Aqua Business School and a Fish Farmers Producers’ Organisation (FFPO).
Through these initiatives, MCL aims to strengthen water resource management, promote sustainable livelihoods, support women-led enterprises and contribute to the socio-economic development of communities across Sundargarh district of Odisha.
