Rajasthan to Receive Coal Stuck in Chhattisgarh, Ensuring Electricity Supply

In a significant development for Rajasthan's energy sector, the state is set to receive approximately 4 lakh metric tonnes of coal, equivalent to about 100 coal racks, previously stranded in Chhattisgarh. This move comes after proactive intervention by the Rajasthan government, aiming to bolster the coal reserves of its power plants and thereby ensuring a steady supply of electricity to its citizens.

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The Rajasthan State Electricity Generation Corporation had previously engaged Aryan Coal Beneficiation India Ltd (ACBEL) in Korba, Chhattisgarh, with a five-year contract to supply coal from South Eastern Coalfields Limited's (SECL) mine for the Suratgarh and Chhabra Thermal Power Plants. However, in July 2022, a coordinated operation by various departments in Chhattisgarh, including the State Tax GST Department, Mineral Department, Revenue Department, and Environment Department, led to the sealing of ACBEL's washeries. This action caused a significant quantity of Rajasthan's coal to be held up.

Addressing this urgent issue, Chief Minister Sharma promptly reached out to his counterpart in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, as well as the central government, seeking assistance to release the impounded coal. His efforts bore fruit as the Chhattisgarh government acted swiftly on the matter. The District Collector of Korba recently issued an order for the release of the 4 lakh metric tonnes of coal.

This resolution is expected to significantly enhance the coal reserves of Rajasthan's power plants operated by the Generation Corporation. The additional supply of approximately 100 coal racks will play a crucial role in maintaining an uninterrupted electricity supply across the state, thereby benefiting the general populace.

The collaboration between state governments and swift action on part of both Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh administrations underscore the importance of inter-state cooperation in addressing logistical challenges that have a direct impact on public utilities and services.