NTPC may begin production from two coal mines by June 2016

NTPC was returned its three coal blocks after receiving approval from the Law Ministry

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 other 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 by the Coal Ministry as it failed to develop them within the stipulated timeframe. However, the blocks were later given back to the power producer after getting approval from the Law Ministry.

NTPC recently informed the government that the production from the Chatti Bariatu and Kerandari mines is 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 the completion of Chatti Bariatu coal block)," it said.

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

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

With regard to the Chatti Bariatu (South) mine, "GR (Geological Reserves) has been procureed and the mining plan is under examination of the Coal Ministry," it said.

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