India continues to rely heavily on coal for power generation despite growing renewable energy adoption. Coal and lignite accounted for 73% of power in 2022-23 and are expected to remain around 50% by 2031-32. This dependence poses environmental and health challenges in coal-bearing regions. Recent analyses show the urgent need for better regulation, monitoring, and community involvement to manage these impacts effectively.
Coal’s Role in India’s Energy Mix
Coal remains the dominant energy source in India’s electricity sector. Despite a shift towards renewables, coal-based power will continue to supply half of the country’s energy needs for decades. This makes addressing its environmental and social impacts critical for sustainable development.
Environmental Consequences of Coal Operations
Coal mining and thermal power plants cause air, water, and noise pollution. Mining degrades land, forests, and water bodies. Fly ash disposal contaminates soil and water, reducing agricultural productivity and biodiversity. Ash dyke breaches have destroyed farmland and fisheries. In coastal areas like Ennore, fly ash has caused waterlogging and increased flood risk.
Health Impacts on Local Communities
Communities near coal operations face severe health risks. Fly ash contains silica, increasing silicosis and cancer risks. Heavy metals such as cadmium and lead contaminate water and fish, harming consumers. Local livelihoods in agriculture, fisheries, and animal husbandry suffer due to environmental damage. Health expenses and income loss create a double burden for affected families.
Regulatory Challenges and Legal Interventions
Existing laws aim to regulate coal pollution but enforcement is weak. National Green Tribunal (NGT) cases reveal poor pollution control and lack of community participation. Emission data manipulation and rule violations are common. Compensation awarded by NGT is often delayed or contested in courts. Some funds fail to reach victims, undermining justice.
Environmental Restoration and Monitoring
NGT rulings increasingly demand environmental clean-up and restoration. Restoration plans are mandated for coal dumping and fly ash removal. However, delays and weak monitoring hinder progress. Regular tracking of air, water, soil, biodiversity, and community health is vital to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
Community Involvement and Capacity Building
Involving affected communities in monitoring and restoration is crucial. Their traditional knowledge can improve impact mitigation. Civil society and independent experts should also participate in oversight. Strengthening pollution control boards and creating transparent reporting systems will enhance accountability.
Recommendations for Sustainable Coal Management
Regular health impact assessments should be mandatory in coal regions. Long-term data collection is needed for informed policymaking and fair compensation. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change must prioritise restoration and health safeguards. A balanced approach is essential to manage coal’s legacy while supporting India’s energy transition.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the environmental and social challenges posed by coal mining in India and the role of the National Green Tribunal in addressing them.
- Examine the concept of ‘just transition’ in the context of India’s energy sector and analyse its implications for coal-dependent communities.
- Estimate the impact of air and water pollution on public health in industrial regions and discuss the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in mitigating these effects.
- Point out the significance of community participation in environmental governance and how it can be enhanced in India’s resource management policies.
