Bolani Iron Ore Mine (BOM), CMLO, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), has been conferred the Pollution Control Excellence Award 2025 by the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB), on it’s 42nd Foundation day, in recognition of its exemplary environmental performance during financial year 2024–25. The award was formally presented by Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Honorable Governor of Odisha and Mr.Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, FE&CC Department, Govt. of Odisha to Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR), SAIL, and Mr. Tapas Ranjan Sahoo, AGM (E&L), CMLO Bolani.
Notably. a detailed technical presentation was made highlighting the comprehensive environmental management strategies and statutory compliance achievements by the Environment & Lease Department of BOM, followed by submission of supplementary documentation, including geo-tagged photographs and video evidence to the OSPCB. A site inspection was subsequently conducted by the Regional Officer of OSPCB to validate the implementation of pollution control measures on ground. Upon completion of these formal evaluation procedures, BOM was selected from among numerous operational mines across Odisha as the recipient of the Pollution Control Excellence Award 2025.
The award reaffirms BOM’s role as a benchmark for responsible mining in India. During FY 2024–25, the mine undertook several key initiatives, including commissioning two Effluent Treatment Plants for wastewater recycling, installing six fog cannons and water sprinklers for dust suppression, and achieving zero discharge of untreated effluent at the loading plant. Large-scale afforestation with over 25,000 native trees, biodiversity enhancement in reclaimed areas, and proactive measures ensured zero forest fire incidents. Overburden dumps were stabilized through coir matting and grassing, while scientific collaboration with IIT (ISM), Dhanbad, supported slope stabilization and mine water management. Backed by ISO certifications, strict statutory compliance, regular awareness programmes, and 100% grievance redressal, BOM continues to set high standards in sustainable and environmentally responsible mining.
