Initiatives by Ambuja’s Rabriyawas plant benefit people and environment
Jaipur, 09th May, 2022: In the period before Ambuja Cement set up its operations in Rabriyawas, the region was enveloped by dust and sand dunes with very sparse vegetation dotting the area. However, over the last two-and-half decades, there has been a dramatic change. The landscape has transformed from a sandy desert to a dense plantation.
This has been the result of the company’s focused efforts in greening the region. So far, it has planted around 2.6 lakh trees of various species all across the 143 hectares of the plant premises. Today, this appears less like a cement plant and more like a landmark in this area covered with vegetation; and where plants like Neem, Sesame, Casia–saima, Karnaj, Kaner etc have found a home. Clearly, land use of the area has changed for the better.
This level of plantation was possible due to a unique engagement model that has been kick-started by company. The ‘Local – Company participation’ is rolled out every year where saplings are distributed to the local communities who live around our plant.
The community members from these surrounding villagers are entrusted with the task of looking after the plants – water regularly, add manure to the soil etc. For these tasks, the villagers are paid for their expenses and services by the company. This is not just an income generation activity but also ensures the total involvement and engagement in the project. A perfect example of sustainability and development – ‘Together we grow’.
Villagers from this location say, “Dense plantation in and around the company area has ensured fodder and shelter to cattle as well as provided a regular income to families involved in this effort. Villagers who were earlier compelled to move out in search of their livelihood, are gainfully engaged. This is really a great change…”
Yet another initiative, which indicates this plant’s focus on improving the environment is its work on road construction.
Under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act 2015, non-profit District Mineral Foundations (DMF) are formed with an objective to work in the interest and benefits of persons and areas affected by mining-related operations in a manner as may be prescribed by the State Government.
And, Ambuja’s Rabriyawas unit has been closely following the mandate and funds around Rs 4 crore to the DMF every year. In addition, as part of the development initiative, road construction work has been initiated where conditions of roads are very poor leading to long hours of travel and also prone to accidents.
Realising that this was an opportunity for development, Ambuja embarked in the construction of the 10 km road connecting the villages of Kotariya and Ras. Locals from both these villages say, “We are so pleased with this new road as it has changed our lives. Besides reducing travel time, there are fewer road accidents. This initiative under Ambuja’s community development programme is a commendable step in the right direction.”
