Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Coal remains a cornerstone of India’s energy mix, contributing approximately 56.7% to the country’s primary energy consumption (FY23 data, NITI Aayog). Despite growing commitments to renewable energy and the adverse environmental consequences associated with its extraction and combustion – including air and water pollution, land degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions – coal mining continues to be deemed ‘inevitable’ for sustaining India’s rapid economic development. This necessity stems from the country’s increasing energy demands, particularly in a developing economy striving for industrialization and poverty alleviation. The question necessitates a nuanced understanding of this trade-off.
Environmental Impact of Coal Mining
Coal mining, particularly open-cast mining, has significant environmental repercussions:
- Deforestation and Land Degradation: Mining operations necessitate clearing vast tracts of forest land, leading to habitat loss and soil erosion.
- Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates surface and groundwater resources, impacting aquatic ecosystems and human health.
- Air Pollution: Combustion of coal releases harmful pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), contributing to respiratory illnesses and climate change.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Coal is a carbon-intensive fuel, and its combustion is a major source of carbon dioxide (CO2), a primary greenhouse gas.
Regions like the Singrauli coalfield (UP/MP) and the Jharia coalfield (Jharkhand) exemplify the severe environmental damage caused by decades of coal mining.
Developmental Imperatives
Despite the environmental costs, coal mining remains crucial for India’s development due to several factors:
- Energy Security: India’s rapidly growing economy requires a reliable and affordable energy source. Coal provides this security, reducing dependence on volatile international energy markets.
- Power Generation: Coal-fired power plants currently account for a substantial portion of India’s electricity generation capacity. Transitioning to renewables requires significant investment and infrastructure development.
- Industrial Growth: Coal is a vital input for key industries like steel, cement, and fertilizers, which are essential for infrastructure development and economic growth.
- Employment: The coal mining sector provides direct and indirect employment to millions of people, particularly in resource-rich states.
According to the Ministry of Coal, India’s coal demand is projected to increase to 1.386 billion tonnes by 2029-30, highlighting its continued importance.
Mitigation Strategies and Sustainable Practices
While phasing out coal entirely is not immediately feasible, several strategies can mitigate its environmental impact:
- Technological Advancements: Implementing cleaner coal technologies like Ultra-Supercritical (USC) power plants and Coal Gasification can reduce emissions.
- Environmental Regulations: Strengthening environmental regulations and ensuring strict compliance with environmental clearances.
- Afforestation and Reclamation: Implementing robust afforestation and land reclamation programs in mining areas.
- Diversification of Energy Sources: Accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power.
- Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS): Investing in CCUS technologies to capture CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants.
The Coal Ministry’s ‘Vision 2030’ aims to enhance coal production while promoting sustainable mining practices.
| Aspect | Environmental Impact | Developmental Benefit | Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coal Combustion | Air & Water Pollution, GHG Emissions | Affordable Power Generation | USC Technology, Emission Control Systems |
| Open-Cast Mining | Deforestation, Land Degradation | Increased Coal Production | Afforestation, Land Reclamation |
| Coal Washing | Water Pollution | Improved Coal Quality | Effluent Treatment Plants |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the environmental impact of coal mining is undeniable, its continued use in India is currently unavoidable due to the nation’s developmental needs and energy security concerns. A pragmatic approach necessitates a gradual transition towards cleaner energy sources, coupled with the adoption of sustainable mining practices and technological advancements to minimize the environmental footprint of coal utilization. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge for India’s future.
Answer Length
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