OREANDA-NEWS. In reference to media reports, we would like to clarify that Sterlite Copper adheres to the highest standards of environment and safety. Sterlite Tuticorin Copper Smelter was under shutdown maintenance since early hours of March 21, 2013 till around 10 AM on March 23, 2013. In the morning hours on March 23, 2013, during plant startup, there were normal emissions within prescribed parameters and since then the plant is functioning normal.

A team of government officials have already inspected the Sterlite copper plant on March 23 and 24, 2013 and has verified the plant status. We understand that the District health officials have confirmed that no case of illness was reported due to alleged gas leakage and based on preliminary report by the Government Officials to the District Administration, the District Officials have issued a press note clarifying the situation.

The Sterlite management also clarifies that the unfortunate death of one contract workman of power plant was a normal death due to accelerated hypertension and hemorrhagic stroke, which was confirmed by medical reports.

Sterlite Copper has invested more than Rs.500 crores in various pollution control measures, which reflects our commitment to the environment. Sterlite assures that its plant operations are absolutely safe and there is no cause of concern. We request the people of Tuticorin not to rely on any rumours.