Senior BJP leader and Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal emphasized the critical role of Chhattisgarh as a major source of minerals, supporting India’s energy and industrial needs. His remarks were made during a meeting of the Coal and Mines Ministry’s advisory committee held in Hyderabad, which included Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and other officials.
The discussions covered ‘Beyond Mining: Mine Closure and Reuse’ and ‘Mineral Exploration in India.’ Agrawal provided a detailed overview of Chhattisgarh’s mineral sector.
Addressing the issue of closed mines, Agrawal demanded safety measures, including filling them with fly ash to prevent accidents. He proposed using fly ash from NTPC plants for this purpose, with appropriate payment structures. He cited a recent incident in Durg district as a reminder of the dangers and suggested the land be leased for farming.
He also addressed coal theft, proposing data monitoring systems in all mines and the operation of weighbridges under authorized control.
Agrawal also put forward recommendations for sustainable development, including mandatory tree planting in mining areas, the establishment of educational and healthcare facilities near mines, and access to CSR funds for Coal Advisory Committee members.
In the second session, he highlighted the need for increased mineral exploration in Chhattisgarh. He pointed out the diamond potential in Gariaband and Jashpur districts, as well as the presence of other valuable minerals. He emphasized that the utilization of the state’s resources should focus on local employment, regional development, and national interests while balancing environmental protection and development.
Agrawal called for a Mining Bureau in Chhattisgarh and regional offices of the Geological Survey of India and the National Mineral Development Corporation. The meeting concluded with the decision to prioritize the safe and environmentally sound reuse of closed mines and to communicate this to the state government.