19 coal mines allocated for sustainable fly ash disposal
COAL & MINING

19 coal mines allocated for sustainable fly ash disposal

In a strategic move towards environmental sustainability, the Ministry of Coal (MoC) has allocated 19 coal mine voids to 13 thermal power plants (TPPs) for the disposal of fly ash. This initiative aims to mitigate the environmental impact of coal combustion and promote the reuse of fly ash in various applications.

A Central Level Working Group (CLWG), chaired by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, was established in 2023 to oversee this process. Thermal power plants interested in utilising mine voids for fly ash disposal submit their applications to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), which are then reviewed in CLWG meetings. This systematic allocation addresses environmental concerns associated with fly ash while promoting sustainable practices within the coal mining sector.

To date, approximately 20.39 lakh tonnes of fly ash have been successfully repurposed at the Gorbicoal mine pit-1, demonstrating the practical benefits of this initiative. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in its notification dated 3 November 2009, defines "fly ash" to include various forms such as Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) ash, dry fly ash, bottom ash, pond ash, and mound ash. Rich in silicon dioxide (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), and aluminium oxide (Al2O3), fly ash is increasingly valued for its potential in construction and other industrial applications.

The Ministry of Coal, in collaboration with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI), is also developing a centralised portal to streamline the application process for the allocation of mine voids. This portal is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in managing fly ash backfilling activities.

Furthering its commitment to sustainable mining practices, the Ministry is conducting comprehensive feasibility studies to determine the optimal methods for mixing fly ash with overburden in operational mines. These studies, conducted in collaboration with the Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR), include significant research at the Nigahi operational mine to establish the best percentage of fly ash to be mixed with overburden. Results from these studies are anticipated soon.

Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Coal is ensuring the safe handling and management of fly ash, mitigating potential environmental risks associated with heavy metal leaching and fine particle emissions. By fostering collaboration with power plants, industries, and regulatory bodies, the Ministry aims to achieve optimal fly ash management, paving the way for a cleaner environment and a more sustainable approach to energy generation in India. (Source: ET)

In a strategic move towards environmental sustainability, the Ministry of Coal (MoC) has allocated 19 coal mine voids to 13 thermal power plants (TPPs) for the disposal of fly ash. This initiative aims to mitigate the environmental impact of coal combustion and promote the reuse of fly ash in various applications. A Central Level Working Group (CLWG), chaired by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, was established in 2023 to oversee this process. Thermal power plants interested in utilising mine voids for fly ash disposal submit their applications to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), which are then reviewed in CLWG meetings. This systematic allocation addresses environmental concerns associated with fly ash while promoting sustainable practices within the coal mining sector. To date, approximately 20.39 lakh tonnes of fly ash have been successfully repurposed at the Gorbicoal mine pit-1, demonstrating the practical benefits of this initiative. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in its notification dated 3 November 2009, defines fly ash to include various forms such as Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) ash, dry fly ash, bottom ash, pond ash, and mound ash. Rich in silicon dioxide (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), and aluminium oxide (Al2O3), fly ash is increasingly valued for its potential in construction and other industrial applications. The Ministry of Coal, in collaboration with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI), is also developing a centralised portal to streamline the application process for the allocation of mine voids. This portal is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in managing fly ash backfilling activities. Furthering its commitment to sustainable mining practices, the Ministry is conducting comprehensive feasibility studies to determine the optimal methods for mixing fly ash with overburden in operational mines. These studies, conducted in collaboration with the Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR), include significant research at the Nigahi operational mine to establish the best percentage of fly ash to be mixed with overburden. Results from these studies are anticipated soon. Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Coal is ensuring the safe handling and management of fly ash, mitigating potential environmental risks associated with heavy metal leaching and fine particle emissions. By fostering collaboration with power plants, industries, and regulatory bodies, the Ministry aims to achieve optimal fly ash management, paving the way for a cleaner environment and a more sustainable approach to energy generation in India. (Source: ET)

Next Story
Products

TOTO India Launches Premium G & L Showers with Sleek Faucet Range

TOTO India has launched its G Shower and L Shower series, alongside an expanded range of GT, LH, and Pull-Out lavatory faucets. The collection blends advanced technology, refined aesthetics, and everyday comfort, staying true to TOTO’s philosophy of creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. The G Shower series delivers the 3Rs of showering: Relaxing, Refreshing, and Revitalizing. Features include the Calming Shawl spray mode, Warm Spa technology, and multiple overhead and hand-shower options across eight finishes. The L Shower complements this with easy-to-use controls sui..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Hero Future Energies Secures Funding for 120 MW Hybrid Project

Hero Future Energies (HFE), through its SPV Clean Renewable Energy Hybrid Three, has secured Rs 19.08 billion in funding from the State Bank of India (lead) and Canara Bank. The funds will be used to develop and construct HFE’s 120 MW renewable energy hybrid project at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The project, contracted with SJVN, integrates wind, solar, and storage technologies to deliver reliable peak power. With a 21-year repayment period, the funding ensures timely execution and the commencement of commercial operations. The financial closure demonstrates continued lender confidence in..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

IOC GPS Renewables Raises Rs 8.36 billion Debt for Compressed Biogas Plants

IOC GPS Renewables Private Limited (IGRPL), a joint venture between IndianOil Corporation  and GPS Renewables, has raised Rs 8.36 billion (approx. US$ 95 million) in debt financing from Indian Bank to execute nine Compressed Biogas (CBG) projects across India.   The funding is the largest single-bank debt raise in the CBG sector and the first fully non-recourse financing in India for these projects. The plants—four in Haryana, three in Uttar Pradesh, one each in Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh—will each produce 15 tonnes of CBG per day using paddy straw as feedstock. All nin..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?