Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal highlighted Chhattisgarh’s significance, stating that the state is not only the ‘Rice Bowl’ but also a key player in India’s energy and industrial sectors due to its rich mineral reserves. He made these remarks at a meeting of the Coal and Mines Ministry’s advisory committee in Hyderabad. Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and other officials attended the meeting.
Discussions in the meeting centered on ‘Beyond Mining: Mine Closure and Reuse’ and ‘Mineral Exploration in India.’ Agrawal presented a comprehensive view of the mineral sector in Chhattisgarh, focusing on both challenges and opportunities.
Agrawal addressed the need to secure and repurpose abandoned mines, recommending that they be filled with fly ash to mitigate risks. He proposed using fly ash from NTPC plants for this purpose, establishing a payment system. The recent accident in Dhamda underscored the urgency, he noted. He also suggested leasing the fly ash-filled land for agriculture.
He raised concerns about coal theft, advocating for data monitoring systems in all mines and authorized control over weighbridges.
He proposed mandatory reforestation in mining areas, as well as the establishment of schools, ITIs, hospitals, and water treatment plants in the vicinity of mines. He also suggested extending CSR funds to the Coal Advisory Committee.
During the session on mineral exploration, Agrawal highlighted the potential of Chhattisgarh, particularly in diamond deposits, as well as other precious stones, and potential lithium reserves. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the state’s resources for local employment, regional development, and national interests while ensuring environmental protection.
He called for the establishment of a Mining Bureau and the opening of regional offices of the GSI and NMDC. The meeting concluded with plans to make the closed mines safe and environmentally friendly, and the state government will be informed to take concrete steps.