Iron Sand Mining Project in X Regency Reaps Pros and Cons
X Regency, December 25, 2024 – The plan to explore iron sand mining in the coastal area of X Regency has sparked a commotion among the community, local government, and environmentalists. The project, which is expected to increase regional income, is considered to have great potential, but also raises serious concerns about environmental damage and social impacts on the surrounding community.
Tempting Economic Potential
According to the Head of the Energy and Mineral Resources Service of X Regency, this iron sand mine is projected to increase Regional Original Income (PAD) by billions of rupiah per year. “The natural resources that we have need to be utilized optimally to support regional development and community welfare,” he said in a press conference, Monday (12/24).
He also added that this project will create jobs for hundreds of local residents. “We have prepared training for the surrounding community so that they can be directly involved in mining activities. This is a great opportunity to reduce poverty in this area,” he said.
In addition, the mining company, PT Mineral Sejahtera, promised to build infrastructure such as highways and other public facilities as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. This is expected to provide long-term benefits for the local community.
Concerns Over Environmental Impacts
However, the mining plan has also drawn sharp criticism from environmental organizations and indigenous groups. They are concerned that the exploration of iron sand mining will damage the coastal ecosystem, disrupt animal habitats, and worsen coastal abrasion, which is already a serious problem in the area.
“The coastal ecosystem is our first line of defense against climate change. If this iron sand mining goes ahead, we will lose the mangrove areas that function as barriers to abrasion and fish habitats,” said Rina Wahyuni, Chair of the Environmental NGO Hijau Lestari, during a demonstration in front of the local government office.
Indigenous groups also feel that their rights to ancestral land are under threat. “The area that will be mined is part of our customary land. This is our source of livelihood and where we have lived for generations. We strongly reject this project,” said Suroto, one of the indigenous community leaders.
Mediation Efforts and Public Discussions
The X Regency Government is trying to mediate these differences of opinion by holding public discussions involving all relevant parties. In a discussion held on Tuesday (24/12), a number of residents expressed their support for the project because of its economic potential, but many also voiced their opposition.
“We ask the government to be more transparent regarding the environmental impact analysis (AMDAL) of this project. Don’t let economic benefits sacrifice environmental sustainability and community life,” said Ahmad Fauzi, a villager who attended the discussion.
The Regent of Regency X, in his speech, promised to consider all input before making a final decision. “We understand the community’s concerns. This project will not proceed without a thorough study and approval from all related parties,” he said.
What’s Next?
The iron sand mining project is still in the planning stage and has not received final permits from the provincial government. Meanwhile, community groups opposing the project plan to file a lawsuit if the exploration permit is still granted.
On the other hand, PT Mineral Sejahtera stated its commitment to following all applicable regulations and ensuring that the project will run in accordance with the principles of sustainability. “We will work with environmental experts to minimize negative impacts,” said a company spokesperson.
While much remains to be discussed, this case reflects a challenge that often arises in large-scale project development in Indonesia: how to balance economic needs, environmental preservation, and the rights of local communities. The final decision regarding the iron sand mine will determine the direction of development in Regency X in the future.