Coal Ministry urges Uttar Pradesh to develop captive coal blocks

The Indian Coal Ministry has advised the state of Uttar Pradesh to prioritize the development of its captive coal blocks to ensure long-term fuel security for its thermal power plants. This recommendation follows reports of potential power shortages due to coal supply disruptions, though the Ministry clarified that current stocks at Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) plants are not in a critical state.

The Ministry noted that the Saharpur Jamarpani coal block in Jharkhand, allotted to UPRVUNL in 2015, has seen no progress toward operationalization due to a lack of initiative from the state utility. Consequently, the state remains dependent on Coal India Limited (CIL) to meet its requirements.

Strengthening long-term fuel planning is considered essential as Uttar Pradesh expands its industrial and urban infrastructure. Significant upcoming projects, such as the 1,980 MW Ghatampur Thermal Power Project, rely on dedicated coal sources like the Pachwara South coal block to maintain a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply.