Coal news and updates

MoEF defers decision on green nod to Monnet Ispat coal block

A high-level panel in the environment ministry has deferred a decision on granting green approval to Monnet Ispat & Energy Ltd's underground coal mining project in Chhattisgarh.

"The proponent informed the Committee (Expert Appraisal Committee) that the Inter Ministerial Group (IMG) had recommended that block is liable for deallocation.... In view of the recommendations of the IMG, the Committee deferred the project for further consideration," an official source said.

He further said that "the EAC (Expert Appraisal Committee) has noted that Ministry of Coal... issued show-cause notice to the proponent to explain as to why the delay in the development of coal block should not be held as violation of the terms and conditions of the allocation of coal block and why the block should not be de-allocated."

Monnet Ispat & Energy Ltd is seeking environment clearance for Rajgammar Dipside (South of Phulakdih Nala) underground coal mine project located in Korba district of Chhattisgarh.

The coal block having a geological reserves of 49.93 million tonnes was jointly allocated to Monnet Ispat and Topworth Steel Pvt Ltd in June 2009 for their steel plants.

The IMG under the chairmanship of Additional Secretary, Coal, had last year recommended issuing show-cause notice to companies for delays in development of coal block. The recommendation of the IMG was accepted by the government.

The IMG has members from ministries, including steel and power.

Source: PTI