Malkangiri: An iron ore slurry pipeline of a private sector steel plant allegedly burst near Pabiliguda village in Chitrakonda area of Malkangiri district, triggering concern among local residents over possible health and agricultural impacts.
The incident reportedly occurred near the Chitrakonda boosting centre, where the pipeline ruptured and iron ore powder mixed with liquid, being transported in slurry form, spilled onto the surrounding area.
According to official sources, iron ore powder is transported through the slurry pipeline from Kirandul to Visakhapatnam. The pipeline passes through Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Following the pipeline burst, people travelling through the affected area reportedly experienced irritation and a burning sensation in their eyes, besides difficulty in breathing. Locals have also expressed apprehension that the material discharged from the pipeline may have reached nearby agricultural land, potentially affecting crops and soil.
The incident has raised concern among residents in the area, with locals seeking measures to prevent any adverse impact on public health and agriculture.
Meanwhile, the company owning the steel plant has initiated repair and safety measures at the site following the incident. The company has also stated that compensation would be provided for agricultural land found to have been damaged due to the slurry spill.
