THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
SUKINDA, FEBRUARY 25, 2026
Amid rising global concerns over water scarcity and environmental
degradation, Tata Steel has reinforced its commitment to responsible mining in
the Sukinda region of Jajpur district by implementing a comprehensive suite of
measures to curb water pollution and safeguard community well-being. By
integrating advanced treatment technologies, smart monitoring systems, and
community-focused interventions, the company is redefining water stewardship in
one of India’s most mining-intensive belts.
At the heart of these initiatives is an extensive water treatment
infrastructure at the Sukinda Chromite Mine, anchored by a high-capacity 4,500
KL per hour Effluent Treatment Plant. The facility treats industrial effluents
and surface runoff, ensuring that unwanted elements are removed before water is
safely reused or discharged in an environmentally responsible manner.
Further strengthening its water management framework, Tata Steel has
commissioned a 1,200 KL per hour Effluent Treatment Plant at the Saruabil
Chromite Mine, augmenting the existing 380 KL per hour unit. Both facilities
ensure that treated water meets Odisha State Pollution Control Board norms and
is reused for horticulture and dust suppression, significantly reducing the
ecological footprint of mining operations.
Speaking about the company’s commitment, the Executive-in-Charge of the
Ferro Alloys and Minerals Division said, “Water is a shared resource, and its
protection is a shared responsibility. Our investments in advanced treatment
systems and digital monitoring reflect Tata Steel’s dedication to conserving
this precious resource and ensuring that our communities continue to thrive.”
To enhance accountability and environmental protection, the company has
strengthened water quality monitoring through sensor-based analysers that
continuously track critical parameters. The data is routinely verified by a
National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration
Laboratories-accredited third-party laboratory, reinforcing scientific
transparency and community trust.
Tata Steel is also setting up an on-site 50 cubic metre per hour Water
Treatment Plant at its Saruabil and Kamarda chromite mines, where treated water
will undergo further purification before being supplied for consumption.
Recognising the traditionally high water footprint associated with mining, the company has deployed a Smart Water Management System across its facilities. Powered by IoT sensors, automation and data analytics, the system monitors water flow and consumption in real time, enabling timely interventions and minimising wastage. In partnership with FluxGen Sustainable Technologies, Tata Steel has digitalised its entire water circuit, with data accessible through interactive dashboards on mobile and web platforms.
Through these sustained efforts, the steel major reaffirms its role as a responsible custodian of natural resources, demonstrating how innovation, empathy and community engagement can help shape a more sustainable future for the people of Sukinda.
