Impacts of India’s Coal Sector
India’s coal sector remains vital for power generation despite a shift towards renewable energy. Recently, experts brought into light the urgent need to assess coal-bearing areas not only for environmental damage but also for health impacts on local populations. A recent report based on National Green Tribunal (NGT) cases reveals ongoing challenges in regulating coal mining and thermal power operations. This knowledge base summarises key findings and recommendations for sustainable coal management.
Coal’s Role in India’s Energy Mix
Coal and lignite accounted for 73% of India’s power generation in 2022-23. Projections indicate coal will still provide around 50% of electricity by 2031-32. This puts stress on coal’s continuing dominance despite government efforts to expand non-fossil fuel sources. The sector’s long-term presence necessitates responsible environmental and social governance.
Environmental and Health Challenges
Coal mining and thermal plants cause air, water, and noise pollution. Dust from coal transport increases particulate matter (PM10) to five times safe levels. Fly ash disposal contaminates soils and water bodies, reducing fertility and biodiversity. Toxic heavy metals like cadmium and lead raise cancer risks in local populations. Silica in fly ash contributes to respiratory diseases such as silicosis. These impacts severely affect agriculture, fisheries, and animal husbandry, causing income loss and health expenses.
Regulatory and Legal Issues
NGT cases reveal frequent regulatory failures. Pollution control norms are often ignored or manipulated by coal operators. Community participation in decision-making is minimal, reducing accountability. Compensation awarded by NGT is inconsistently calculated and delayed due to legal challenges. In some cases, funds fail to reach affected people. The tribunal emphasises absolute liability for polluters but enforcement remains weak.
Environmental Restoration Efforts
NGT rulings mandate environmental restoration and pollution clean-up. Restoration plans have been ordered in several cases, including river decontamination and mangrove rehabilitation. Some funds have been allocated for these activities. However, implementation suffers from delays, lack of clear timelines and inadequate monitoring by authorities. Without effective restoration, environmental degradation and health risks persist.
Recommendations
- The report calls for continuous monitoring of air, water, soil and biodiversity in coal regions.
- Pollution control boards should be strengthened and include affected communities, civil society and experts in oversight.
- Health impact assessments must be standard practice near coal operations.
- Restoration committees should integrate traditional knowledge to protect livelihoods.
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change must prioritise clean-up missions.
- Long-term data collection is essential to inform compensation and policy decisions.
- The NGT may keep cases open to ensure ongoing regulatory compliance through periodic reporting.
Just Transition
A just transition to renewable energy must consider the environmental and social costs borne by coal-dependent communities. Health, economic and livelihood impacts require urgent attention. Policies should balance energy needs with sustainable development and social justice to ensure no one is left behind during India’s energy transformation.
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