Baghel writes to Union min over coal supply shortage

In a letter to Union Minister of Coal Prahlad Joshi, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel stated that South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is only fulfilling one-third of the state's coal needs of 1.50 crore tonne. Baghel stated that Chhattisgarh's steel industries are in danger and requested the state government to help. Baghel stated that the SECL decision to halt coal deliveries in August will have a negative impact on the state's economy. According to the chief minister, Chhattisgarh's annual coal production capacity is 15 crore tonne, and the state ranks second in coal output in the country. However, the majority of the coal generated in Chhattisgarh is exported to other states, ignoring the state's interest as one of the leading steel-producing states.