Coal & Lignite PSUs Provide 3,963 Lakh Kilolitres of Treated Mine Water in FY25

Coal and Lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), including Coal India Limited (CIL), NLC India Limited (NLCIL), and Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), are actively implementing measures to ensure the sustainable utilisation of mine water for irrigation and community use.

By repurposing excess mine water, these PSUs aim to reduce dependence on groundwater for irrigation, industrial, and domestic needs.

Ensuring Water Quality and Environmental Compliance

Regular monitoring and quality assessments of treated mine water are conducted by accredited laboratories to ensure compliance with required standards for irrigation and domestic use.

In addition, rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge initiatives are being implemented to maintain the groundwater balance, reinforcing environmental sustainability efforts.

Significant Water Supply Achievements in FY 2024-25

During the financial year 2024-25 (up to February 2025), Coal and Lignite PSUs supplied approximately 3,963 Lakh Kilo Liters (LKL) of treated mine water for domestic and irrigation use.

This initiative has directly benefited local communities residing in and around coal and lignite mining areas across various states, providing a reliable water source while reducing groundwater depletion.

Investment in Mine Water Treatment Infrastructure

Coal and Lignite PSUs have consistently invested in infrastructure to treat mine water in coal and lignite mining areas.

Mine water treatment infrastructure is an essential component of mining operations, mandated by statutory provisions such as Environmental Clearance, Consent to Establish, and Consent to Operate for mining projects.

The key facilities for mine water treatment include Effluent Treatment Plants, which process industrial discharge to meet environmental standards, and Water Filtration Plants that ensure treated mine water is safe for irrigation and domestic use.

Additionally, Sedimentation Tanks aid in filtering and settling suspended particles, while regular maintenance and upgrades enhance the efficiency and capacity of existing water treatment infrastructure.

MoU for Mine Water Supply to Thermal Power Plant

A significant milestone in mine water utilisation has been achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) and Maharashtra State Power Generation Corporation Limited.

As per the agreement, treated mine water from Bhanegaon Open Cast Mine will be supplied to Kapakheda Thermal Power Station. This initiative frees up water from the Irrigation Department, which was previously used for the thermal power station, making it available for domestic and irrigation purposes.

Conclusion

Through these initiatives, Coal and Lignite PSUs are setting benchmarks in sustainable water management, ensuring that mine water is effectively utilised for agricultural, domestic, and industrial needs.

These measures not only contribute to groundwater conservation but also support the livelihoods of communities in mining regions, reinforcing the commitment of Coal and Lignite PSUs toward environmental stewardship and resource sustainability.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.