"Work is on to locate the exact point of leakage, which is about eight metres to 10 metres below the ground level," Murrari told reporters here after visiting the spot along with a team of company directors on Sunday.

It was estimated that it would take four weeks approximately to rectify the pipeline, if it was done manually, he said, and added that they were exploring the possibility of moving earth moving equipment for early completion of repair work.

"The team has also confirmed, at the time of inspection, that there has been a leakage of slurry material into the nearby stream where it has settled in the form of a deposit like any other sandy or clay material," he said.

At the time of visit, he said, the water in the streams were found to be very clear and flowing smoothly without any contamination. Orders had been issued for taking water samples from the main stream for analysis, he said.

The team, Murari said, confirmed that there was no alarming situation, as of now, except for mobilisation and starting the rectification work at the earliest.

Asked if the company's lease had been extended by the Centre by one more year as it expired on Monday, he said they were hopeful of getting it on time. Kiocl's 30-year lease had expired in July 1999 and temporary extension was then given for one more year.