Coal reserves in Cherla await mining

Coal reserves in Cherla await mining
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Highlights

A survey conducted 60 years ago revealed abundant A-grade coal resources at Cherla mandal in Bhadrachalam division that could be helpful in providing employment to youth for not less than the next one hundred years. But, the then government showed disinterest in excavation due to lack of transport facility.

The mining, if initiated, will provide jobs to hundreds of youth

Kothagudem: A survey conducted 60 years ago revealed abundant A-grade coal resources at Cherla mandal in Bhadrachalam division that could be helpful in providing employment to youth for not less than the next one hundred years. But, the then government showed disinterest in excavation due to lack of transport facility.

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) in 1956 formed a team comprising 40 members that examined the places here. The team sent samples to Nagpur.

The tests revealed that Cherla, Gompally, Kothapally, Kathigudem, Pujarigudem, Lenin Colony, Ricepet villages contain approximately eight million tonnes of coal at a depth of 300ft which is of fine quality, according to people who participated in it. It is also learnt that a second survey was made in 1980 that also stated the same.

The transport facility wasn’t there 60 years ago. But, now things have changed a lot. There is a highway too passing nearby.

A bridge was constructed near Vajedu over Godavari River. The Central government is ready to construct another bridge between Manuguru and Dummugudem.

The question arises here with such good transport facilities available here, why the governments at the Centre and the State aren’t taking up coal mining in this area.

It is evident that thousands of families will get employment if mining is started. There is no scope for disadvantages like human displacement and pollution as the mining will be done underneath.

Moreover, underground mines do not require much machinery. This will be further helpful in increasing number of jobs.

Narayanachandra, a mason, said he came as a worker for the survey team in 1956 and settled here. He recollected the survey teams results and said the area would be developed if mining works begin.

CPM State executive member Macha Venkateswarlu criticised the governments for whiling away time in taking decision.

He demanded the government to provide employment to the youth here by taking up the coal mining.

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