The Ministry of Coal has achieved a significant milestone by witnessing a substantial increase in coal production during May 2023. The total coal production reached 76.26 million tons (MT), surpassing the figures of May 2022, which stood at 71.21 MT, representing a growth of 7.10%. Coal India Limited (CIL) witnessed an increase in production from 54.72 MT in May 2022 to 59.94 MT in May 2023, showing a growth rate of 9.54%. The cumulative coal production for FY 2022-23 also witnessed a remarkable increase of 149.41 MT compared to 138.41 MT in FY 2021-22, with a growth rate of 7.94%.
The improved infrastructure for first-mile connectivity contributed to the growth in coal dispatch during May 2023. Coal dispatch reached 82.22 MT, surpassing the figure of 77.79 MT in May 2022, with a growth rate of 5.70%. Dispatch from captive and commercial coal blocks also showed an impressive growth rate of 16.84%, with 12.23 MT in May 2023 compared to 10.47 MT in May 2022. The cumulative coal dispatch for FY 2022-23 witnessed a substantial increase of 162.44 MT compared to 149.76 MT in FY 2021-22, with a growth rate of 8.47%.
The substantial increase in offtake has resulted in a comfortable coal stock position, ensuring a reliable and abundant supply of coal. The total coal stock as of May 31, 2023, reached 112.41 MT, compared to 82.97 MT on May 31, 2022, showing a growth rate of 35.48%. This positive coal stock position strengthens the capability to meet unforeseen fluctuations in energy demand and ensures the nation’s energy requirements are met.
The availability of coal rakes, essential for coal transportation, has remained consistently good due to the Ministry’s initiative to enhance rail connectivity infrastructure under the PM Gati Shakti program. This positive trend in rake availability has facilitated smooth transportation, minimized bottlenecks, and ensured uninterrupted coal supply.
The Ministry continues to focus on augmenting coal production while prioritizing responsible and conscientious coal mining practices that prioritize environmental well-being and community welfare.
