Coal extraction in Raniganj has historically driven growth in West Bengal’s Paschim Bardhaman district, transforming Asansol-Durgapur into a center for heavy industry and manufacturing linked to railways. Over time, industries like steel and engineering flourished, creating industrial townships and labor markets. However, technological advancements and ownership changes have eroded competitiveness, leading to closures of many older mills and factories.
The industrial landscape saw shifts due to nationalization and restructuring, with non-coking coal being nationalized in the 1970s and major steel companies like IISCO being integrated into SAIL. Changes in mining practices, from underground to open-cast operations, and closure of less viable mines have impacted local employment. Despite ongoing coal production by public companies, the region now witnesses more consolidated and capital-intensive steel and engineering activities.
One such example of industrial decline is the closure of the Burnpur unit of Burn Standard Company Limited (BSCL), approved by the Union Cabinet in 2018 due to sustained losses and poor performance. The closure aimed to cease draining public funds and redirect resources to other developmental projects. Employees benefited from a severance package and VRS, marking the end of an era for the once-iconic company.
The closure of BSCL raised questions among former employees like Asish Bagh, highlighting the company’s historical contributions to iconic structures and civic projects. Policy shortcomings and managerial decisions were cited as factors contributing to the company’s downfall. Similarly, Tej Naran Mishra, a second-generation worker at Sen Raleigh Limited, shared his experience of witnessing the closure of the celebrated cycle manufacturer in Asansol, reflecting a broader trend of industrial decline in the region.
