BEHIND THE IRON MINES | Hidden Cost of Iron Ore Extraction in Chhattisgarh

November 10, 2023
By Tej Bahadur Singh

Chhannu Markam lost his wife and four children. He claims that the deaths were a result of health complications arising from a polluted red-water river. He lives in Loha Village in Chhattisgarh, a state heavily reliant on its revenue from iron ore mines. The mines discharge polluted red water, severely impacting the lives and livelihoods of nearby tribal villagers like Chhannu, especially in the South Bastar region. The once-clear Dankini and Shankhini rivers now flow with a deep red hue due to mining activities. Left with no alternatives, the villagers are compelled to consume 'Laal Paani' (Red Water), jeopardising their health. In this story, Producer Tej Bahadur Singh delves deep into the grim realities these communities grapple with.