The National Remote Sensing Survey (NRSC) team will come to BCCL in the month of November to take stock and investigate the underground fire and land-affected areas of Jharia coal sector. BCCL has entered into an MOU with NRSC to conduct a study of areas affected by fire NRSC is the agency of ISRO which detects underground fire and landslide-prone areas through satellites. The Coal India chairman reviewed the status of Jharia underground fire through video conferencing and sought a report from BCCL within a month.
BCCL CMD Gopal Singh and all directors had joined the video conferencing. Coal India Chairman briefed about the situation of underground fire and landslides in the area and discussed the efforts being made by BCCL. It was reported that two out of 34 fires had been extinguished through fire-fighting projects in the fire-affected area. 32 fires though still remain active. Rehabilitation of Jharia was also discussed and information was sought. BCCL officers informed that rehabilitation work has been affected due to corona epidemic, but assured that the rehabilitation would be completed within the financial year. The Chairman also provided information on the rehabilitation work done on behalf of JRDA. Scientific mining in BCCL was also discussed and it was asked to formulate an action plan. Scientific mining could curb multiple problems including pollution.
