Why Underground Coal Mining Matters
By going underground, miners avoid cutting down forests or damaging farmland. The land above remains mostly untouched, and homes or roads are safe from disruption.
Cleaner and Quieter Operations
Compared to open-pit mining, underground mining causes much less dust and noise. This helps reduce air and sound pollution in surrounding areas.
That means healthier lives for people living near coalfields. It also helps protect animals and vegetation in the region.
Ideal for Deep and High-Quality Coal
Many of India’s best-quality coal reserves lie deep beneath the surface. Underground mining is the only way to reach these valuable resources safely.
This method makes sure we access cleaner, high-calorific-value coal while avoiding unnecessary surface damage.
Less Impact from Weather and Climate
Underground mines are safer during the monsoon season. Floods or heavy rains that disrupt open mines don’t affect these operations as much.
This means fewer delays, more safety, and steadier coal supply throughout the year.
Government Support for Underground Mining
The Indian government has stepped in to promote underground mining. As per an update dated April 23, 2025, new incentives have been introduced to boost this sector:
- Lower floor percentage of revenue share to just 2%
- No upfront payment required for mining rights
However, there’s one condition. If a mine is auctioned as an underground project, it cannot be changed into an open-pit mine later.
Current Trends in India’s Underground Coal Mining
Despite its advantages, the share of underground mining in India has steadily decreased:
- 2019–20: 5.54%
- 2020–21: 4.50%
- 2021–22: 4.26%
- 2022–23: 3.90%
- 2023–24: 3.44%
This decline reflects a focus on easier, cheaper open-pit mining. But the government aims to reverse this with smarter policies.
Adopting Modern Technology for Safer Mines
Coal companies are turning to modern solutions to make underground mining safer and more productive. Some of these efforts include:
- Using Mass Production Technology (like longwall mining)
- Partnering with private operators under MDO (Mine Developer & Operator) model
- Reopening abandoned underground mines through public-private partnerships
These efforts help improve output and reduce the dangers often linked with underground operations.
The Way Forward
Underground coal mining is more than just a cleaner option—it’s a smarter one. With the right push from the government and industry, it could become a cornerstone of India’s sustainable coal strategy.
By balancing economic growth with environmental care, underground mining offers a path to energy security that doesn’t cost the earth—literally.
