SECL's Coal Mining Projects Hit Delays Amidst Push for Domestic Production

The South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), an arm of Coal India, is grappling with delays in 12 of its coal mining projects. Reasons for these delays include setbacks in obtaining green clearances and issues surrounding land possession. These delays coincide with the government's efforts to enhance domestic coal production to cut down on imports.

SECL, a Mini Ratna public sector enterprise, reports that three of these delayed projects are valued over Rs 500 crore. Five projects fall within the Rs 150 crore to Rs 500 crore range, while others vary in costs, according to the company's documentation. Despite these setbacks, 18 other projects remain on schedule.

A total of 30 ongoing projects exist within SECL, split between those experiencing delays and those progressing as planned. The coal ministry monitors projects exceeding Rs 500 crore, while the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) oversees those above Rs 150 crore through an online system. SECL boasts a sanctioned capital investment of Rs 44,571 crore, with its coal reserves distributed across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.