No coal shortage in India; Centre to explore mining in Bengal
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy clarifies there is no coal shortage in India and discusses mining opportunities for West Bengal.
Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy has dismissed concerns regarding a coal shortage in India, clarifying that the nation's energy security remains intact despite a significant surge in electricity demand. Speaking on Monday, the Minister noted that while power requirements have climbed, the supply chain is functioning effectively to meet these needs.
Power demand surges as coal supply stabilizes
Addressing the media on the sidelines of the Angul Aluminium Park Roadshow, Minister Reddy explained that the perceived pressure on resources is largely due to a massive spike in power consumption. He highlighted that demand has seen an increase ranging from approximately 12% to as high as 50%.
The Minister also addressed previous concerns regarding supply chain interruptions. "While there were some coal-related issues during the monsoon season, the situation has now normalised," Reddy stated. He reassured the public that there is no shortfall in production and that the government is working to supply as much coal as possible to keep up with the rising demand.
New mining opportunities for West Bengal
In a significant move for the eastern state, the Union Minister announced that the Central Government is looking to strengthen the mining landscape in West Bengal. The Centre intends to engage in discussions to identify specific opportunities within the coal and mining sectors that could benefit the state.
The Minister emphasized a collaborative approach between the central and state governments, stating:
- Exploring ways to strengthen the mining industry through joint efforts.
- Discussing specific benefits and opportunities West Bengal should receive.
- Identifying new initiatives involving the Ministry of Coal, the Ministry of Mines, and various Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
A major priority for these future initiatives will be the creation of jobs, as the government aims to boost employment within the mining sector through new strategic developments.
Mandatory operation for captive power plants
To further fortify the nation's energy grid against the expected rise in electricity needs, the government has issued a strategic directive. Captive coal-based power plants with an installed capacity of 50 MW or more have been instructed to operate at their maximum available capacity. This directive is set to be in effect from October 1 through December 31, 2026, ensuring a robust power supply during the upcoming months.