New Delhi: The Naini Coal Mine in Odisha, which boasts a production capacity of 10 million tonne per year, is expected to commence operations soon. This development follows the allocation of the mine to Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) on August 13, 2015, specifically for supplying coal to its thermal power plants.
The operational start of the mine was previously stalled due to delays in handing over the necessary forest land, despite receiving Stage-II forest clearance in October 2022. However, recent discussions led by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy, with the Government of Odisha, have successfully resolved the issues. On July 4, 2024, approval was granted for the transfer of 643 hectares of forest land to SCCL, paving the way for the mine’s operationalization.
Reddy thanked Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, for his prompt response and cooperation, which were crucial in addressing the long-standing issue. “This step will further strengthen and secure the energy security needs of Telangana,” Kishen Reddy commented.
With the resolution of the land handover issue, SCCL is poised to begin coal production at the Naini mine, significantly enhancing the energy supply critical for Telangana’s development.
