Coal ministry upholds a 25% increase in Coal stocks

The Union coal ministry has notified that there is a substantial increase in coal stocks, with the total coal reserves at pit heads and en route to thermal power plants (TPPs) recorded at 147 million tonnes (MT) as of May 15, 2024. Sequentially this marks a 25 per cent increase compared to the 117MT on the same date last financial year.

Further bolstering the power sector's operational security, the ministry noted that coal stocks at TPPs have risen to 45MT, a 29 per cent increase from last year’s 34.83MT. The Ministry of Coal has extensively planned to ensure high stocks at the TPP end before the commencement of monsoon to ensure adequate availability of coal at all power plants throughout the monsoon season," said a ministry statement.

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Coal India Ltd, the primary coal-producing public sector unit, has largely witnessed the surge in reserves, with pithead stock reaching 85MT, 30 percent higher than the previous year. This boost has targeted the supply in line with the Ministry's strategy to fortify coal availability to meet the nation’s growing energy demands.

While focusing on the performance of the coal sector, the ministry informed that coal production this year has grown by 7.26 percent compared to last year.

 Correspondingly, thermal power generation and rake supply have increased by 8.78 percent and 8.45 percent respectively, ensuring adequate transportation arrangements are in place to meet the enhanced demand of coal.

 

 

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In addition, the coal ministry has showcased the improvements in coal logistics supported by enhanced evacuation infrastructure and the operationalization of additional ports for coastal evacuation of coal. These measures have significantly contributed to streamlining coal distribution processes across the country.

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