The village of Bhujanganagar in Sandur Taluk, Bellary District, once plagued by severe waterlogging and inadequate infrastructure, has seen a remarkable turnaround thanks to targeted development initiatives by NMDC. Located near the Donimalai Township, the village now enjoys improved living conditions, better roads, and enhanced safety during the monsoon season.
For years, Bhujanganagar faced recurring flooding due to outdated drainage systems. During monsoons, homes were inundated, and stagnant water became a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to frequent outbreaks of diseases like malaria and dengue. In July 2024, the situation reached a critical point as several villagers required hospitalization, prompting urgent action from the Panchayat.
Recognizing the pressing need for a sustainable solution, NMDC allocated ₹22 lakhs from its ₹2.58 crore village development fund to construct 440 meters of reinforced cement concrete (RCC) drainage. This initiative not only addressed the waterlogging issue but also included the development of roads, providing the village with much-needed connectivity.
The project was completed on schedule, just in time to protect the village during Cyclone Fengal in December 2024. For the first time in years, Bhujanganagar experienced no flooding despite heavy rains.
Residents now live free from the fear of monsoon floods and vector-borne diseases. Women in particular have expressed relief, as improved infrastructure has made their homes safer and daily life more stable. “For years, we lived in constant fear during the rains. Now, our homes remain safe, and we sleep peacefully,” said PundiOmkarappa, a long-time resident.
Additionally, the new roads have replaced dangerous gravel paths, improving travel and connecting Bhujanganagar to nearby towns like Sandur and Donimalai. These changes have facilitated better access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, benefitting both residents and local businesses.
NMDC’s efforts in Bhujanganagar exemplify how focused investments in infrastructure can uplift vulnerable communities. By addressing fundamental issues like drainage and road connectivity, the initiative has not only improved living conditions but also fostered resilience against future challenges.
Founded in 1958, NMDC is India’s leading iron ore producer and a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel. Operating state-of-the-art iron ore mines, including Donimalai in Karnataka, NMDC contributes significantly to India’s steel industry. With a vision to expand its production capacity to 100 MTPA by FY2030, NMDC remains committed to sustainable mining practices and community development, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of national progress.
