Date:25/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/25/stories/2006012506800400.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Give up plans on bauxite mining: CITU

Special Correspondent

Government urged to cancel agreement with Jindal group

Pollution threat to Araku valley and other areas feared

CITU to create awareness among tribals

HYDERABAD : The Centre of Indian Trade Unions State committee has demanded that the Government cancel the agreement it entered into with the Jindal group of companies for bauxite mining in the agency areas of Visakhapatnam.

Contrary to the Government's claims that bauxite mining will provide employment to the locals, a few thousands of people employed in the coffee plantations, anganwadi workers, workers associated with Integrated Tribal Development Agency and gram sevaks are likely to lose their jobs if the project is allowed, CITU State vice-president S. Punyavati has said.

Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, she said in addition to damaging the environment of Araku valley and other areas, mining activity would also pollute the water sources of tribals resulting in health hazards to them. The CITU decided to create awareness among people.