RRVUNL Questions Report on Parsa Coal Mine in Chhattisgarh

Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RRVUNL)  has once again questioned the legitimacy of a report by the Chhattisgarh State Scheduled Tribes Commission (CSSTC), which found irregularities in environmental clearances for the Parsa coal mine in the Surguja region of Chhattisgarh.

Key Highlights of the Report

• Alleged Irregularities in Environmental Clearances: The CSSTC found irregularities in obtaining environmental clearances for the Parsa coal mine project.
• Forgery Claims: The Commission alleged that forged documents were used, particularly concerning the consent of the gram sabha (village council).
• Recommendations: The CSSTC recommended the cancellation of forest clearances for the project, citing biodiversity concerns in the Surguja region.

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About Coal and types of Coal

• Coal is a readily combustible, black or brownish-black sedimentary rock predominantly made of carbon.
• This is a solid fossil fuel formed over millions of years from the remains of plants. 
• As these plants decompose under high pressure and heat, they transform into various types of coal, ranging from low-grade lignite to high-grade anthracite.
• Types of coal in India:

Distribution of Coal in India

• Gondwana Coal Fields (250 million years old): It accounts for 98% of India’s coal reserves and 99% of its production. The coal of the region is of superior quality, high ash content, including metallurgical grade coal.
  • It is Found in following locations:
    • Damodar Valley (Jharkhand, West Bengal)
    • Mahanadi Valley (Chhattisgarh, Odisha)
    • Godavari Valley (Maharashtra)
    • Narmada Valley
• Tertiary Coal Fields (15–60 million years old): Carbon content is low, rich in moisture and sulfur.
  • It is found in Following Locations
    • Extra-peninsular regions (Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, J&K)
    • Himalayan foothills (Darjeeling, West Bengal)
    • Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala

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Role of Coal in India’s Energy Sector

• Dominant Fuel Source: Coal is the primary fuel source for India’s power generation, accounting for a substantial portion of the country’s energy mix. It  is used in more than 70% of the total power generation.
  • Coal-based power generation in India has played a significant role in meeting the country’s energy demands. 
  • India is currently experiencing a substantial increase in power demand, driven by a combination of factors like industrial growth, technological advancements, population growth, economic development etc.
• Industrial Backbone: Coal is essential for various industries, including steel, cement, and fertilizers.
• Economic Growth: Coal-based industries contribute significantly to India’s economic growth and employment.
• Challenges and Transition: India is gradually transitioning towards cleaner energy sources to reduce its reliance on coal. However, coal remains a vital part of the country’s energy landscape.