Raipur- Coal India Ltd. is in talks with villagers in Chhattisgarh who oppose the proposed development of the Gevra mine, which can potentially become one of the world’s largest coal-producing plants. The Gevra mine has the potential to create thousands of jobs and meet India’s energy security needs. The protests against the expansion plans challenge Coal India’s goal of increasing its annual capacity to 70 million tons. As Coal India stated, achieving this target would establish the Gevra mine as the leading global coal source.
India’s growing power demand has led to a focus on energy security and the need to enhance coal production, which currently contributes to about 70% of the country’s electricity generation.
Concerns raised by nearby residents include worries about air pollution, the impact on groundwater levels, and fair compensation for acquired land, as conveyed by Deepak Sahu, joint secretary for Korba district, where the mine is situated. Chhattisgarh Kisan Sabha, a farmers’ union in the state, represents these concerns.
Coal India and its subsidiaries have encountered difficulties scaling up operations in various locations, including Chhattisgarh. A public hearing was recently conducted at the Gevra site in response to the concerns.
According to a spokesperson from South Eastern Coalfields Ltd., the unit responsible for operating Gevra, the company has implemented substantial measures to address pollution concerns related to the mining process. Moreover, studies have shown no adverse effects on groundwater levels in the Korba district.
The spokesperson also highlighted that last year, the Coal India unit provided 700 jobs as compensation for land, marking the highest number of jobs offered in a decade. Additionally, financial compensation for land has been increased, demonstrating the company’s commitment to addressing the concerns of affected individuals and communities.