Central Mine Planning & Design Institute (CMPDI) has successfully completed India’s first pilot project to extract gas from coal at Kasta East in Jamtara district under Eastern Coalfields Ltd (ECL). The project, executed over 15 months in collaboration with a Canadian technology partner, has now been approved for its second phase by Coal India’s Research & Development (R&D) Board.
Also Read: First Phase of India’s First Coal-to-Gas Extraction Completed in Jharkhand
Second Phase to Focus on Post Extraction Studies
According to officials, the next 15-month phase will include a detailed study of the impact of gas extraction on the environment, groundwater quality, and surrounding ecosystem. The commercial feasibility of gas utilization will also be assessed through a demonstration project. A final report will be submitted to Coal India’s R&D Board after additional monitoring over three months.
Also Read: Jharkhand’s Kasta Coal Block to Lead India’s Coal Gasification Revolution
Strategic Move for Difficult to Mine Reserves
Nearly 40% of India’s coal reserves are difficult to mine using conventional methods. This initiative, guided by the Coal Ministry, aims to turn such reserves into a usable energy source through in-situ gasification. Experts believe that the gas extracted can be processed for multiple uses, including power generation and industrial applications, making it a critical component of India’s future energy strategy.
Expert Given Green Signal
The R&D Board’s approval came after extensive technical evaluation by IIT specialists and Coal India’s in-house experts, confirming the viability of the pilot. The project is expected to pave the way for commercial coal-to-gas projects, providing a cleaner alternative to direct coal burning while supporting the country’s energy security goals.
Also Read: Damodar Valley, Once India’s Ruhr, Now Looking to Green Future
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