Significant Improvement in Coal Supply to Power Plants Alleviates Electricity Crisis Fears
The Coal Ministry reports a notable rise in coal supply to power plants in October, easing concerns about electricity shortages.
New Delhi, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : The Coal Ministry announced on October 9 that there has been a significant improvement in coal supply to power plants during October, dismissing media reports that suggested an impending electricity crisis as misleading. According to an official statement, coal supply in October has averaged 9% higher than in September, marking a 36% increase from the previous month’s low levels.
Despite concerns over dwindling coal reserves at power plants, the ministry emphasized that the supply chain is steadily strengthening, with the central government closely monitoring the situation.
Railway coal transportation has also seen an uptick, averaging over 465 rakes per day in October. Notably, the target of 470 rakes per day was achieved for three consecutive days. Improvements in coal supply have also been observed through other means, including road transport.
The rate of decline in coal stocks has significantly slowed. In September, power plants experienced a daily drop of 0.243 million tons, which decreased to 0.116 million tons per day in October. The ministry indicated that the situation is gradually stabilizing, although actual stock replenishment has not yet commenced.
Moreover, the ministry clarified that being classified as having ‘critical stock’ does not imply that a power plant is out of coal or on the verge of shutting down. This classification serves as a precautionary measure, issued when stock levels fall below established standards.
The statement noted that these plants are under special surveillance, and coal redistribution is being managed to ensure that sensitive power stations receive adequate supply, preventing any disruption in electricity production.
The ministry anticipates that the situation may improve further with the end of the monsoon season and a potential decrease in electricity demand by mid-October. If daily supplies continue at the rate of 465-475 rakes, coal reserves could be bolstered ahead of the festive season, winter, and the next summer’s demand.
The Coal Ministry is working in collaboration with the Rail and Power Ministries to continuously monitor coal availability and logistics across the country, ensuring that electricity production remains unaffected by coal shortages.
