Korba, Chhattisgarh: The coal racket has resurfaced at the shut-down Balco Captive Power Plant (BCPP) in Korba. This plant has been non-operational since December 2015, raising questions about the large quantities of coal being stored there. Despite being closed, the plant has become a focal point for illegal coal dumping, with the coal allegedly being diverted to Balco’s operational facilities.
Dubious Operations and Double Freight Costs
Balco’s decision to source coal through BCPP has raised eyebrows, as it incurs double freight costs. BCPP, originally a captive power plant meant to supply electricity to its colony and alumina plant at subsidized rates, now finds itself at the center of a coal supply controversy. Balco’s commercial power plant within its alumina complex attracts higher coal prices, making the cheaper coal routed through BCPP suspicious. If Balco claims that the coal was originally theirs, it still breaches regulations prohibiting coal depots within a 25-kilometer radius of a mine. This makes the storage at BCPP illegal. Despite this, authorities have not taken action to seize the coal, raising further suspicions.
Coal Mafia Still Active?
Notorious coal mafias like S.S. Nag, Ranu Sahu, and Suryakant Tiwari have been implicated in past scandals. While it is rumored that new players have emerged, the modus operandi remains unchanged. Past arrests of mining officials by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for coal scams have not deterred the current officials. The ongoing illegal coal operations at BCPP indicate a continued nexus between officials and coal mafias.
Significant Financial Loss to State and Central Governments
This illegal trade is causing substantial revenue loss to both state and central governments. Millions of rupees worth of coal are being sold illicitly, resulting in billions of rupees in lost revenue. A significant question arises as to how Balco has evaded ED’s attention. The scale of the illegal operations suggests possible collusion at higher levels of authority.
Call for Investigation
The BJP government faces criticism for allowing this illicit trade under its nose. Despite the evident illegal coal storage and transport, no decisive action has been taken. This negligence raises questions about the government’s commitment to law and order.
The public demands a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible for this massive coal racket. The truth must be unearthed, and justice served to restore public faith in the administration.
