Government Takes Action to Address Abandoned Mines in India

The Indian government has taken significant steps to address the issue of abandoned, discontinued, or closed mines. As of January 12, 2023, 299 such mines have been identified, with Coal India Ltd playing a proactive role in their closure.

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Identification and Categorization of Mines

The government has identified a total of 169 pre-2009 and 130 post-2009 mines that fall under the category of abandoned, discontinued, or closed. Of these, 68 pre-2009 mines have been marked for final closure, while 14 are designated for temporary closure.

Addressing Pre-2009 Mines

Mines closed before 2009 often lacked a structured closure framework, leading to non-scientific closures. Recognizing the associated physical hazards and environmental consequences, the government issued guidelines in October 2022 for managing these mines. They are categorized as discontinued, abandoned, or closed.

Post-2009 Mines and Closure Plans

Regarding post-2009 mines, Coal India Ltd is actively preparing 35 Final Mine Closure Plans (FMCPs), demonstrating its commitment to responsible mine closures. Additionally, the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has identified six pre-2009 mines for temporary closure and five post-2009 mines for final closure.

Ongoing Mine Closure Activities

Mine closure activities are already underway for the identified mines, reflecting the dedication of both Coal India Ltd and SCCL to environmental sustainability. These efforts underscore the government's commitment to addressing the challenges posed by abandoned mines and ensuring responsible mine closure practices.