Technical Due Diligence Of Iron Block in Odisha, India

In 2019, the Geovale team has conducted due diligence on an Iron Ore Block area in Odisha. The case study based on several sources of information and documents provided by the client have been analysed to understand the project scope, objectives, and relevant background details, site visit. The Geovale team has formed opinions and recommendations regarding Iron Ore Block area, which are presented in the report.

Strategy Adopted by Geovale:

Review of Regional and Local Geology - The review assesses the regional and local geology, structural composition, and iron ore mineralization utilizing data from both the in-house regional database and geological reports, maps, and sections provided by the client.

Geological Resource Estimation - Geovale conducted high-level 3D ore body modeling utilizing borehole data to assess geological resources. Surface topography was generated from provided plans and contours, enabling estimation of geological resources beneath current surface levels.

Pit Design and Geological Reserve Calculation - High-level computerized pit design utilizes advanced software to optimize open-pit mining layouts, while geological reserve calculations assess the economic viability of extracting minerals, ensuring efficient and profitable resource extraction.

Topographic survey and geological, structural mapping- Reviewing physiography, infrastructure, land use, and evacuation routes for optimal access and resource management, including transport to the nearest railway siding.

Rehabilitation and Resettlement Considerations - Anticipate and address potential requirements and issues related to rehabilitation and resettlement for affected communities in project planning and execution.

Block Geology, Mineralization and Mining

Geovale team visited the mine site to see the Geology and mineralization. There are two mine pits at the southwestern and southeastern part of the block The block area resides within the upper shale Formation of the "Horse Shoe Syncline," known as a northerly plunging overturned Synclinorium, renowned as a prolific Iron Ore Belt in India. The basin's genesis is attributed to an intra-cratonic depression formed by parallel faulting between the Singhbhum Granite Complex and the Bonai Granite. Three phases of deformation moulded the region, shaping a NNE plunging syncline overturned towards the east and cross folded along an E-W axis.

Conclusion:

Based on the exploration data and thorough due diligence, Geovale estimated the available iron ore resources at 19.10 million tonnes with an average Fe content of 62.55%, having high grade (average Fe >60%). No human settlement within the block area eliminates potential rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) concerns. Due to the small mine area and limited space for fixed infrastructure, meticulous planning is essential for mining.