Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has committed ₹22.64 crore for five Corporate Social Responsibility projects in Sundargarh district of Odisha through memoranda of understanding signed with the District Administration on Tuesday. The projects include three water body rejuvenation initiatives: Kata Bandha (₹4.32 crore), Brahamani Bandha (₹3.98 crore), and Abdul Hussain Bandha (₹2.69 crore), totaling ₹10.99 crore for water conservation efforts. Additionally, MCL is funding freshwater inland aquaculture in mining-affected areas of Hemgir Block (₹3.81 crore) and renovation, improvement and construction of tanks under Talsara Assembly Constituency (₹7.84 crore).
The water body rejuvenation projects align with the Amrit Sarovar mission and will include embankment protection, construction of pathways, bathing steps, stone packing, railings, seating spaces, electrical works, and horticulture. These initiatives aim to promote water conservation, groundwater replenishment, environmental improvement, while developing leisure destinations and supporting small-scale tourism.
The aquaculture project is being implemented in-line with the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana and will benefit over 700 small-scale farmers and FPO members through the development of 50 new ponds and renovation of 20 existing ponds. The project also includes formation of women-led fish seed production units, Custom Hiring Centres, an Aqua Business School, and a Fish Farmers Producers' Organisation (FFPO).
The General Manager (CSR) of MCL and the District Collector of Sundargarh signed the MoUs for project implementation by the District Administration. Through these initiatives, MCL aims to strengthen water resource management, promote sustainable livelihoods, support women-led enterprises, and contribute to the socio-economic development of communities across Sundargarh district.