Government Signs First Commercial Underground Coal Gasification Deals

04 May 2026 CW Team

The framework adopts a phased approach to deployment with initial projects focused on technical validation, environmental monitoring and community engagement. Developers are required to submit detailed site plans, groundwater protection measures and monitoring protocols before operations commence. The government will retain authority to enforce compliance and to suspend activity if safeguards are not met, and will publish reports on environmental performance and project milestones to ensure transparency.

Officials said the framework is expected to stimulate investment in complementary technology, create local employment opportunities and support feedstock supplies for domestic gas and chemicals sectors. The move is presented as part of a wider strategy to improve energy security and to reduce dependence on imported fuels, while testing commercial viability of the underground coal gasification process at scale. Stakeholders will assess outcomes from early projects before further roll out.

Next steps include final regulatory clearances, mobilisation of resources by contracting parties and the commencement of baseline environmental studies at selected locations. The ministry will coordinate with state governments and independent monitors to oversee implementation and to address community concerns. Depending on early results, the programme may be expanded to additional sites to support industrial demand and strategic reserves.

"Join industry leaders at RAHSTA Expo, India's premier platform for roads, highways and traffic infrastructure. Register now to explore innovations, network with experts and shape the future of mobility."

The central government has signed the first commercial agreements to develop coal mines under the underground coal gasification framework, marking a significant policy milestone for domestic energy supply. The agreements formalise roles for the nodal ministry, selected developers and state agencies and set out contractual obligations, compliance requirements and revenue arrangements. Officials described the step as intended to unlock stranded coal reserves and to diversify fuel sources while maintaining regulatory oversight and environmental safeguards. The framework adopts a phased approach to deployment with initial projects focused on technical validation, environmental monitoring and community engagement. Developers are required to submit detailed site plans, groundwater protection measures and monitoring protocols before operations commence. The government will retain authority to enforce compliance and to suspend activity if safeguards are not met, and will publish reports on environmental performance and project milestones to ensure transparency. Officials said the framework is expected to stimulate investment in complementary technology, create local employment opportunities and support feedstock supplies for domestic gas and chemicals sectors. The move is presented as part of a wider strategy to improve energy security and to reduce dependence on imported fuels, while testing commercial viability of the underground coal gasification process at scale. Stakeholders will assess outcomes from early projects before further roll out. Next steps include final regulatory clearances, mobilisation of resources by contracting parties and the commencement of baseline environmental studies at selected locations. The ministry will coordinate with state governments and independent monitors to oversee implementation and to address community concerns. Depending on early results, the programme may be expanded to additional sites to support industrial demand and strategic reserves.

Infrastructure Urban

06 Jul 2026

ABS Marine Sees CRISIL Credit Rating Upgrade

ABS Marine Services has secured an upgrade to its long term and short term credit ratings from CRISIL, reflecting improved profitability and revenue growth through long term contracts. CRISIL moved the long term rating from BBB+/Stable to A-/Stable and revised the short term rating from A2 to A2+. The action signals strengthened financial metrics and operational resilience. The company benefited from durable client relationships with firms such as ONGC and Schlumberger. The rating decision followed stronger cash flows and an enlarged bank loan facility, which increased from Rs 3,705 million (m..

Infrastructure Transport

06 Jul 2026

Project BRAHMANK Marks 16 Years Of Strategic Roads In Arunachal

Project BRAHMANK is marking 16 years of work to establish strategic road and bridge links across Arunachal Pradesh, maintaining and developing 811 kilometres of roads and nearly 86 bridges that range from small culverts to large steel and arch bridges. These transport links are described as critical for ensuring year-round movement of defence personnel, equipment and essential supplies while improving everyday travel for people in remote villages. The project balances national security requirements with regional development by focusing on reliable access in challenging terrain. Notable enginee..

Infrastructure Transport

06 Jul 2026

Longleng CSOs Give One Week Ultimatum Over Two-Lane Highway

Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Longleng district have demanded immediate restoration of the deteriorating Changtongya–Longleng two-lane road and sought a detailed status report on the stalled construction within one week. The demand followed a consultative meeting convened under the Phom Peoples' Council (PPC) to discuss welfare and development concerns. PPC president YB Angam Phom said prolonged non-maintenance had caused hardship to commuters and affected transportation, local commerce and the district's development. The meeting urged authorities to undertake immediate restoration a..