New Delhi, Dec 28 (FN Bureau) Domestic coal production increased 12.29% year-on-year to 664.37 million tonnes (MT) in financial year 2023-24 till December 25, official data released on Thursday showed. Coal production had stood at 591.64 MT in FY23 (till December 25). The overall coal dispatch in FY24 (till December 25) was 11.32% higher at 692.84 MT as against 622.40 MT in the corresponding period of the previous financial year. “Furthermore, the overall coal dispatch to power sector from April 2023 to 25th December 2023 increased by an impressive 8.39%, reaching 577.11 MT compared to 532.43 MT during the corresponding period of the previous year,” Ministry of Coal said in a media release.
As per official data, the overall coal stock position including mines, thermal power plants (DCB), transit, etc., reached 91.05 MT as on December 25 this year, showing a 21.57% growth from 74.90 MT on December 25, 2022. “Additionally, pithead coal stock at Coal India Limited (CIL) on 25.12.23 stands at 47.29 MT, demonstrating a notable growth of 53.02% compared to the coal stock of 30.88 MT on 25.12.22,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry noted that efficient coal supply to Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) has resulted in robust coal stock levels at various pitheads, highlighting the effectiveness of the coal supply chain in ensuring seamless distribution nationwide. “This higher coal stock position reflects the commitment of the Ministry of Coal to maintaining an ample coal supply and underscores effective stock management strategies and operational efficiency and consistent coal supply to meet the energy needs of the power sector,” Coal Ministry said.