A preliminary survey was recently conducted on Forest department land at Narlam ahead of the proposed bauxite mining operations. The inspection was led by State Mining and Geology Additional Director M.C. Kishore, and Revenue and Forest officials participated.

Bauxite deposits have been identified on 150 hectares, and the survey aimed to assess the extent of land available for mining. A detailed survey is set to begin next week and is expected to be completed within a month, after which a report will be submitted to the State government.

Mining will be restricted to forest land, specifically in rocky areas, while avoiding soil-rich zones, residential areas, and places of worship. Officials estimate that at least 100 hectares will be available for extraction. Mining will be carried out to a depth of around five meters, and the land will later be repurposed for agriculture and other uses.

In addition to Narlam, bauxite deposits have been identified in Ukkinadukka block, where most of the land is privately owned. Survey and drilling have already been completed, and samples have been sent for testing.

To address public concerns over mining on private land, the first phase of operations will be carried out in the Narlam forest area. Studies by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) have confirmed commercially viable mineral deposits in various locations across Kasaragod. Once testing is completed, a high-level committee led by the Industries department Principal Secretary will oversee the bidding process for mining rights.