SECL’s Green Initiative: A Major Step Towards Environmental Sustainability in India
On October 7, 2024, the South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India based in Chhattisgarh, announced a significant milestone in its commitment to environmental sustainability. Under the campaign titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, SECL has successfully planted 1,46,675 saplings across its operational areas in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. This ambitious initiative is part of a nationwide plantation drive that commenced in July 2024, under the guidance of Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, encompassing all coal public sector undertakings (PSUs) throughout the country.
Extensive Plantation Drive Across Multiple Districts
SECL’s plantation activities spanned eight districts in Chhattisgarh and three in Madhya Pradesh, covering an area of more than 56 hectares. As part of its community engagement efforts, the company distributed an additional 25,000 saplings to local residents living near its mining sites, thereby fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among the community.
This green initiative gained further momentum through the 2024 “Swachhata Hi Seva” campaign, which emphasizes cleanliness and hygiene. Under this initiative, SECL planted an additional 4,200 saplings, reinforcing its commitment to environmental conservation alongside public cleanliness.
Landmark Achievements in Plantation
One of the notable highlights of SECL’s environmental efforts was at its Kusmunda mine, recognized as the world’s fourth-largest coal mine. To celebrate the achievement of producing 501 lakh tons (50 million tons) of coal during the fiscal year 2023-24, SECL made a record by planting 501 saplings in a single day. This accomplishment not only showcases the company’s dual focus on meeting India’s energy demands but also its dedication to maintaining ecological balance.
Future Investments in Green Initiatives
Looking ahead, SECL plans to invest Rs. 169 crores over the next five years to enhance its extensive plantation efforts in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. In collaboration with the Rajya Van Vikas Nigam, the company aims to plant over 26 lakh saplings in Chhattisgarh and 12 lakh saplings in Madhya Pradesh between the years 2023-24 and 2027-28. This initiative also includes a four-year maintenance program for the planted saplings to ensure their healthy growth and survival.
Innovative Techniques for Enhanced Afforestation
To further accelerate its afforestation efforts, SECL has introduced the Japanese Miyawaki technique, a method known for its ability to promote rapid growth of green cover. A pilot project utilizing this technique has already been initiated over an area of 2 hectares in the Gevra area. Since its inception, SECL has planted over 3 crore saplings across its operational coal belts, highlighting its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
SECL’s proactive approach in implementing extensive plantation drives not only contributes to enhancing India’s green cover but also reflects a broader commitment to sustainable practices in the coal industry. As the company continues to take significant strides towards environmental stewardship, it sets a noteworthy example for other sectors to follow, demonstrating that economic development can go hand in hand with ecological preservation.
