Natural and Power Resources of Odisha: A Treasure Trove

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Odisha is endowed with vast reserves of natural resources. The state has significant deposits of bauxite, chinaclay, chromite, coal, dolomite, fireclay, graphite, gemstones, iron ore, limestone, manganese ore, mineral sand, nickel ore, pyrophyllite, and quartz. Odisha, a state rich in natural resources, offers a unique blend of minerals, forests, water, and land resources. Let's explore these treasures one by one. 

Mineral Resources 

Odisha is a mineral-rich state, boasting a variety of minerals and energy resources. The state is India's leader in chromite production, with significant deposits in Jajpur, Keonjhar, and Dhenkanal. Iron ore is abundant in regions like Badampahad in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Jajpur, and Sundergarh. Manganese, found in Sundergarh, Kalahandi, Keonjhar, Bolangir, and Koraput, places Odisha first in the country for manganese production. Additionally, Odisha has large coal reserves in Angul and Jharsuguda and substantial bauxite deposits in Sambalpur, Bolangir, Kalahandi, and Koraput. 

Forest Resources 

Odisha's diverse geography and favorable climate have endowed it with rich forest resources. About 32% of the state's area is covered by forests, which include evergreen, monsoon, tidal, and mountain varieties. These forests are home to valuable trees like teak, sal, and bamboo, and they support a vibrant ecosystem with wildlife sanctuaries such as Similipal for tigers and Chilika for birds. 

Water Resources 

The state's numerous rivers, including the mighty Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Baitarani, provide vital water resources. The Mahanadi River, originating from Madhya Pradesh, flows through Odisha, where the Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur harnesses its power for hydroelectricity and irrigation. Other important rivers like Subarnarekha, Budhabalang, and Rushikulya also enrich the state's water wealth. Odisha's lakes, Chilika and Anshupa, are not only beautiful tourist attractions but also rich in fish resources. 

Land Resources 

Odisha's land can be divided into three main regions: the central mountain region, the western hill region, and the coastal plain region. The central mountain region, stretching from Mayurbhanj to Malkangiri, includes districts like Angul, Kalahandi, and Koraput. The western hill region, located to the west of the Mahanadi River, encompasses Sundergarh, Jharsuguda, and Sambalpur. The coastal plain region, extending from the Bay of Bengal to the Eastern Ghats, is highly fertile and supports major crops like rice, sugarcane, and groundnuts. Districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, and Puri fall within this region.

Power Resources

Odisha's power resources are divided into renewable and non-renewable categories.

Non-Renewable Energy:

• Talcher Super Thermal Power Station: Located in Angul, this is India's second-largest power plant, with a capacity of 3000 MW.
• Captive Power Plant: Established by the Ferro Alloys Corporation Limited near Randia, this coal-based plant has a capacity of 420 MW.
• Jharsuguda Power Plant: A 2400 MW plant set up by the Vedanta Group, capable of meeting a significant portion of the state's power needs.

Renewable Energy:

The Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) promotes renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and biomass. Notable renewable energy potentials in Odisha include:

1. Solar Power: 14,000 MW
2. Wind Energy: 236 MW
3. Biomass Power: 350 MW

Major Hydroelectric Power Plants: 

• Balimela Project: Malkangiri, on the Sileru River.
• Hirakud Project: Sambalpur, on the Mahanadi River.
• Machkund Project: Koraput, on the Machkund River.
• Rengali Project: Angul, on the Brahmani River.
• Upper Indravati Project: Near Bhawanipatna, on the Indravati River.
• Upper Kolab Project: Koraput, on the Kolab River.

Odisha’s rich natural and power resources significantly contribute to its economy and development, making it a vital region in India.