Aluminium Deposits Found in Ukkinadaka, Kasaragod; State to Auction Bauxite Mining Rights
Kasaragod, Kerala – A recent geological study has confirmed significant aluminium deposits in Ukkinadaka, a village in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. The discovery has prompted the state government to seek further analysis from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), potentially unlocking new economic opportunities for the region.
The village, covering approximately 2.85 square kilometers, is estimated to contain around 2 crore tonnes of stone with a high aluminium oxide concentration of 44.4%. This percentage surpasses the 40% aluminium oxide content previously identified in Odisha’s Vedanta Group study. The stone composition also includes 5.17% scoliosis, 22.6% pericoxide, and 1.76% titanium oxide. Authorities are currently assessing the impact of mining on the 284 houses located in the vicinity. If approved, extraction activities could significantly boost the local economy.
In a related development, the Kerala state government is preparing to auction bauxite mining rights in Kasaragod, with an expected revenue generation of approximately $60 million (INR 5,000 crore). The auction will cover two key areas: the Narala Block and the Ukkinadaka Block. The Narala Block, spanning 1.5 square kilometers in Mulleria, contains an estimated 0.2113 million tonnes of high-grade bauxite and 5.1417 million tonnes of aluminous laterite. Situated near the Kadakam Reserve Forest, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Forest Department, the block presents both opportunities and environmental considerations. Meanwhile, the Ukkinadaka Block, covering 2.8 square kilometers in Badiyadukka and Enmakaje in Manjeswaram taluk, consists of both private and government land. A detailed G2-level exploration by the GSI is expected to reveal its mineral yield next month.
The auction process will be open to both government agencies and private entities. The extracted bauxite, a crucial raw material for aluminium and cement manufacturing, is expected to drive industrial growth, particularly benefiting cement factories. A high-level committee, led by the Principal Secretary of the Industries Department, will oversee the bidding process, while the government is also considering appointing a transactional advisor to facilitate the auction. Additionally, discussions are underway to explore potential mineral deposits from the platinum group in the region.
These developments in Kasaragod could establish Kerala as a key player in India’s mineral resource sector while ensuring economic growth through well-regulated and sustainable mining initiatives.
