Intro (Micro Notes Format):
Coal remains the backbone of energy and industrial development, especially in developing countries like India, despite its adverse environmental consequences. It is vital for power generation, steel production, and economic growth.
Why Coal Mining Is Inevitable for Development:
1. Dominant Energy Source:
- ~70% of India’s electricity from coal-based thermal plants.
- Key to ensuring energy security in an emerging economy.
2. Industrial Backbone:
- Coal is essential for steel, cement, aluminium industries.
- Coking coal critical for blast furnaces in steel sector.
3. Employment & Livelihoods:
- Provides direct/indirect employment to millions (e.g., in Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh).
- Stimulates ancillary sectors like transport and machinery.
4. Regional Development Driver:
- Development of railways, roads, power infra in mining belts.
- Boosts state revenues (e.g., from mining royalties).
5. Low Cost & Abundant:
- India has 4th largest coal reserves (~319 billion tonnes, 2023).
- Inexpensive compared to renewables in short term.
Adverse Environmental Impacts:
1. Air Pollution & GHG Emissions:
- Coal mining releases methane; combustion emits CO₂, SO₂, NOx, PM2.5.
- Contributes to climate change and smog.
2. Land Degradation & Deforestation:
- Open-cast mining causes topsoil loss, habitat destruction.
- Affects biodiversity and forest-dependent communities.
3. Water Pollution & Shortages:
- Contaminates rivers with acid mine drainage, heavy metals.
- High water consumption impacts availability for agriculture.
4. Health Hazards:
- Linked to silicosis, asthma, lung cancer in miners and locals.
- Example: Coal mining belts in Jharkhand show high disease burden.
Way Forward: Balancing Development and Sustainability
1. Cleaner Coal Technologies:
- Washed coal, supercritical boilers, carbon capture to reduce emissions.
2. Gradual Transition to Renewables:
- Increase share of solar, wind, hydro while phasing coal slowly.
- Coal as bridge fuel till renewable infrastructure matures.
3. Regulatory Framework:
- Strict EIA norms, environmental clearance, land reclamation mandates.
- Mine closure and afforestation after extraction.
4. Just Transition for Workers:
- Reskilling coal-dependent labour for green energy sector.
- Social safety nets in coal-reliant regions.
Conclusion:
Coal mining, despite environmental costs, remains inevitable in the short term for energy security and industrial growth. A balanced approach combining cleaner technology, strict regulations, and renewable transition is vital for sustainable development.
