NTPC may begin production from two coal mines by June 2016

State-owned NTPC is likely to commence production from its two captive coal mines -- Chatti-Bariatu and Kerandari -- in Jharkand by June 2016.

However, its another mine -- Chatti-Bariatu (South) -- in the eastern state will be developed by 2038.
The three coal blocks were earlier forfeited from the state-run company as it failed to develop them within the stipulated timeframe. However, the blocks were later given back to the power producer.

NTPC recently informed the government that the production from the Chatti Bariatu and Kerandari mines in expected to commence from June 2016, according to a recent Coal Ministry document.

"Chatti Bariatu (South) coal block is located in the dip- side of Chatti Bariatu block in North Karanpura coalfields and is to be developed...By January 23, 2038 (25 years after completion of Chatti Bariatu coal block)," it said.

NTPC also informed the ministry that with regard to Chatti Bariatu coal block all the milestones like mining plan, mine closure plan and environment and forest clearance have been completed. But due to reasons like lack of support of state government and law and order situation the company was unable to commence coal production despite of all the clearances, it added.

In the case of Kerandari mine all major milestones like mining plan and environment clearance have been completed. But forest clearance( stage II) and land acquisition was under process, it said.

As far as Chatti Bariatu (South) mine was concerned, "GR (Geological Reserves) has been procureed...And mining plan is under the examination by Ministry of coal," it said.

Three coal blocks of NTPC which were early forfeited by the coal ministry were given back to the PSU after getting approval from the Law Ministry.

The Coal ministry had earlier said that NTPC would develop the coal blocks as per the revised schedule submitted by them.