Why in news?
A recent report highlighted the health and environmental damage caused by coal extraction and power generation in India. The report called for tighter regulations, better monitoring and a just transition for affected communities. With coal still the dominant fuel for electricity in India, the findings renewed debate on how to balance energy security with public health.
Historical background
Coal has powered India’s industrial growth since colonial times. After Independence, state‑owned mines and thermal plants expanded rapidly to meet rising demand for electricity and steel. Today about 70 % of India’s power still comes from coal. The sector supports millions of jobs and provides affordable energy, but its environmental footprint is heavy.
Why India relies on coal
- Energy security: India has abundant coal reserves and limited domestic oil and gas. Dependence on imported fuels could expose the country to price shocks and supply disruptions.
- Industrial backbone: Coal fuels not only electricity but also steel, cement and other basic industries. Large plants and infrastructure have been built around coal, making a sudden shift difficult.
- Affordable power: For now coal‑fired electricity remains cheaper than most alternatives. Renewable sources are growing but still face intermittency and storage challenges.
- Employment: Mines and power plants provide direct and indirect jobs for millions, especially in eastern states where alternative livelihoods are scarce.
Environmental and health impacts
- Air pollution: Coal burning releases particulate matter and gases that contribute to smog and respiratory illnesses. Many coal belts record PM10 levels far above safe limits.
- Water contamination: Mine runoff and ash ponds leach heavy metals into rivers and groundwater. People living near mines often suffer from skin diseases and digestive problems.
- Biodiversity loss: Open‑cast mining strips forests and displaces wildlife. Soil erosion and dust storms degrade nearby farmland.
- Public health burden: Studies link coal exposure to chronic bronchitis, hypertension and reduced life expectancy. Women and children in mining communities are particularly vulnerable.
Governance concerns
- Weak enforcement: Pollution norms and rehabilitation requirements are often not enforced. Monitoring of emissions and effluents is irregular.
- Insufficient compensation: Displaced families sometimes receive inadequate or delayed compensation. The Forest Rights Act is poorly implemented, and community consent is tokenised.
- Lack of participation: Affected communities are rarely consulted in planning or monitoring. Women’s voices are especially absent.
Recommendations and way forward
- Health impact assessments: Conduct comprehensive assessments before approving new projects and periodically review existing mines and plants.
- Continuous monitoring: Install real‑time sensors for air and water quality and make data publicly available.
- Community participation: Ensure that local residents, especially women and indigenous people, have a say in decisions that affect their lives.
- Restoration and just transition: Reclaim mined land through tree planting and soil improvement. Create alternative livelihoods and establish a fund to support workers as India gradually moves towards cleaner energy.
- Diversify the energy mix: Invest in solar, wind and storage technologies, and encourage efficient use of energy to reduce dependence on coal.