The district administration conducted an investigation into pollution caused by the Earth Minerals Company Limited ( EMCL ) coal washery in Bandhbahal, based on a complaint from the Bandhbahal Village Committee.

The investigation was led by Sub-Collector Kishore Chandra Swain, who visited the EMCL site on Friday. However, it appears that no pollution control board notice was issued to stop the company's operations under the new ownership.

During the visit, the Sub Collector listened to the grievances of the villagers and the views of the company. He also expressed displeasure after visiting the coal washery and observing extensive tree cutting. As a result, he mentioned that the District Forest Officer (DFO) would be directed to investigate the matter, and the Regional Transport Officer would be instructed to take necessary action to address road-related issues.

Assistant Environmental Scientist from the State Pollution Control Board (PCB) Regional Office Anush Eka confirmed that the Sub Collector had visited the company. Once all aspects have been reviewed, the company will be directed to take further steps to control pollution based on the findings.

It is mentioned that the company was originally established in 2013 but faced financial constraints and other problems, leading to its shutdown. However, no notice was issued by the Pollution Control Board to halt operations at that time. The company has now resumed commercial production under new management since February of the current year.

According to General Manager of EMCL, SK Mohapatra, the company has taken measures to address pollution concerns. These include setting up a rain run in the stockyard and implementing a fog system on all four sides of the company, costing Rs 1.50 crore, to control coal ash. Additionally, plans have been made to plant 2,000 trees of 20 ft height along the colony. Mohapatra stated that the company would comply with any further guidelines from the Pollution Control Board.