The proposed coal gasification complex in Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal, is progressing, with Coal Gas India Ltd (CGIL) advancing key preparatory steps for the Rs 130.52 billion project aimed at producing synthetic natural gas (SNG), an official said.

Projects & Development India Ltd, acting as consultant on behalf of CGIL, has invited bids for setting up an Air Separation Unit (ASU) on a Build, Own and Operate basis. The ASU will supply oxygen and nitrogen to the coal gasification complex on a continuous, round-the-clock basis throughout the contract period. The deadline for bid submissions is 31 January.

The project is being implemented through a joint venture company, CGIL, in which Coal India holds a 51 per cent stake and GAIL holds 49 per cent. The joint venture plans to establish a coal-to-SNG plant at Eastern Coalfields Ltd’s Sanctoria area in Paschim Bardhaman district, using surface coal gasification technology.

The proposed facility is designed to produce 80,000 normal cubic metres per hour of synthetic natural gas, primarily using low-ash coal supplied by Eastern Coalfields Ltd. The project aligns with the central government’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported natural gas by promoting domestic coal gasification.

The plant is scheduled for commissioning in 2029–30, with construction activities expected to take place between January 2027 and August 2028. The Bardhaman coal gasification project forms part of India’s target to achieve 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030, strengthening domestic energy security and diversification.