Coal news and updates

Mumbai Port stops coal handling from October 31

India Coal Market Watch

 November 30: Mumbai Port Trust has decided to stop coal handling from October 31 in the larger interest of the city, an official told ICMW.

 The port had earlier published a notice on September 9, 2015 stating its intention to stop handling of vessels carrying coal after September 24.

 The notice also said that coal importers would have to clear the area by October 30.

 In 2014, Bombay High Court has asked for renewing its “consent to operate” for coal handling on port trust land. That consent order expired in September 2015.

 A significant volume of imported coal was being imported at Mumbai Port and stored within the precincts of land belonging to the port. After that, it was transported by rail wagons to MAHAGENCO’s plants in Nashik and Bhusaval. It was alleged by environmental activist that residents, fishermen and students in that area were suffering from respiratory problems because of coal handling at the port.

 Earlier, a few years back, Chennai Port had stopped handling of coal cargo vessels under similar circumstances. Both Chennai and Mumbai ports are virtually located near the city.

 Gautam Dey, Business Development Manager of the port, admitted that the port has decided to stop handling coal in the larger interests of the city.