Building on efforts to promote responsible mine closure practices, the Ministry of Coal will unveil the ‘AAROH – Annual Report on Mine Closure’ on Wednesday. This release marks the closure of 42 coal mines for the first time since independence, showcasing scientific reclamation and community-centric interventions. The event will also include an agreement signing with Germany’s Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the inauguration of Coal NEER Plants.
The report highlights the successful transformation of closed mines through ecological restoration and sustainable post-mining land utilization. It emphasizes the importance of strengthening institutional partnerships and international cooperation for scientific mine closure practices. An Implementation Agreement with GIZ will focus on enhancing technical cooperation for future mine closures.
In addition, the inauguration of Coal NEER Plants by Coal India Limited aims to provide safe drinking water in coal-bearing regions, aligning with community-focused development goals. The event, graced by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, will witness the participation of other key ministers. Mine closure is a crucial phase involving ecological restoration and land reclamation for community and economic benefits.
The Ministry of Coal’s initiatives, such as the RECLAIM Framework and L.I.V.E.S. Framework, emphasize community engagement and sustainable mine closure practices. The programme will showcase innovations in mine reclamation and community rehabilitation, featuring contributions from various organizations. This event underscores the commitment to responsible mine closure and sustainable post-mining land-use practices.
