Only three coal mines have been scientifically closed in 16 years since Coal India Limited (CIL) first issued mine-closure guidelines. What does this mean for India's Just Transition? Read the thread below by @sukriti_vats to know more:

A scientific mine closure involves restoring the soil structure by backfilling pits with rock and mineral material, followed by replanting native vegetation to restore the land to its pre-mining state.

In January 2024, CIL announced its plans to take proactive steps for closure of 299 abandoned/discontinued mines, but months later only 8 applications were received for final closure. Only three of them received closure certificates by October last year.

Pathakhera No. 02 of Western Coalfields Limited located in Madhya Pradesh’s Betul district was the first coal mine to close down in India. It took about 13 years to complete the closure process.

Scientific mine closure is a crucial part of a 'just transition' to clean energy, ensuring that mined land is properly reclaimed before being repurposed for sustainable use or returned to local communities.

At least 28 abandoned mines have run out of coal reserves but remain officially open, highlighting both missed opportunities for land repurposing and ongoing safety concerns.

The 2024 Coal Bearing Act Amendment Bill introduced a provision allowing the govt to transfer/return land once it is no longer needed, but with most mines not formally closed, its implementation remains uncertain.

The coal ministry has acknowledged delays in mine closures. Experts cite lack of funding as the key issue and argue that developed nations pushing carbon reduction should help finance the transition.

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