Nagpur: In a significant boost to Maharashtra’s energy landscape, the Coal Controller Organisation under the Ministry of Coal has approved Adani Power Maharashtra Limited (APML) to commence operations at its Gondkhairi underground coal mine in Kalmeshwar tehsil. The clearance, communicated through a letter dated September 1, 2025, follows the project’s Stage I and II forest approvals secured last year.
Spread across eight villages—Gondkhairi, Kalambi, Surabardi, Waddhamna and others—the Gondkhairi block covers 862 hectares. It holds a net geological reserve of 98.5 million tonnes of coal, of which 52.4 million tonnes are mineable, including 42.9 million tonnes considered extractable. The coal is graded as G8, and the mine is designed for a 30-year lifespan.
Unlike open-cast projects that often involve large-scale land acquisition, this venture will adopt longwall underground mining technology. Officials highlighted that only 18 hectares (around 2% of the lease area) will be used for mining and green belt development, while the rest will remain untouched. An IIT Kharagpur study confirmed that no surface subsidence is expected, thereby ruling out the need for displacement or rehabilitation. Company representatives emphasized that the approach is aimed at ensuring minimal ecological impact and safeguarding nearby communities.
The mine has a rated capacity of 2.0 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), with a peak output potential of 3.0 MTPA. Operations will adhere strictly to the Mining Plan, Environmental Clearance (EC), and Forest Clearance (FC). The project is expected to generate 863 direct jobs and over 1,600 indirect employment opportunities for locals. During construction, villagers will benefit from hiring out tractors, loaders, excavators, and other machinery, while in the long run, transport services, small businesses, and local enterprises are projected to gain momentum—raising household incomes.
Officials added that the mine would also augment state revenues through royalties, taxes, and duties, while improving electricity availability across Maharashtra.
APML has pledged a zero effluent discharge mechanism, with all mine water recycled for internal use. A sewage treatment plant (50 KLD) and an effluent treatment plant (10 KLD) will be established, while surplus treated water will be provided to nearby villages for agriculture. Additionally, about 5,000 saplings of native species will be planted, supported by rainwater harvesting structures in the mine area and surrounding villages. The project will also avoid blasting, with coal extraction carried out through mechanised cutting to maintain low noise and vibration levels.
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