This is how the matter came to light
Bhapdev Banwal, a resident of Kaliadhura village, had been demanding a geological survey of the area for four decades. He was writing a letter to the PMO in this regard. The PMO took notice of his letter in the month of February this year. The PMO then ordered the district administration to conduct a geological survey. Preliminary reports indicate that there is a strong possibility of deposits of copper, uranium and other minerals.
Soils and rocks were investigated.
Soil and rock samples were collected by the Mines Department about six months ago. They were sent to the Wadia Himalayan Geoscience Institute laboratory for testing. Their tests have confirmed the presence of 60 to 70 percent copper and other minerals.
After this report, the Department of Mines has been alerted. Soil and rock samples collected from various places in the Ludhiana Ghat region have been sent to a lab in Bengaluru for chemical tests. Further action will be taken after Bengaluru lab report.
The mine officer’s claim is different.
In-charge District Mines Officer and Geologist Dr. Harish Bisht said that in the preliminary survey, copper ore and metacite have been found in abundance at various places in the Ludhia Ghati area. This has increased the possibility of large number of copper mines in the area. He said that apart from this, other minerals and crude oil reserves are being explored.
Survey 40 years ago too
A survey was also conducted in this area about 40 years ago. The geological survey revealed the possibility of copper, uranium and crude oil deposits in the area. At that time, the research project could not be taken forward due to financial constraints and other reasons. However, now Champawat District Mines Officer-in-charge Dr. Harish Bisht says that rock and soil samples have been sent to Bengaluru lab for chemical testing. As soon as the presence of minerals is confirmed, DPR will be prepared and work will be started.
DM has expressed hope.
Champawat DM Navneet Pandey expressed hope that the preliminary report of the Geological Survey would prove to be correct. He said that a geological survey of the area has been conducted. Preliminary report has found the possibility of availability of other minerals including copper. If this possibility actually changes, new avenues of development will open up in the Ludhiana Ghat region.
