Has Coal Stock at Thermal Power Plants Reached an All-Time High of 58.25 Million Tonnes?
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Synopsis
On June 24, the coal stock at thermal power plants reached a record high of 58.25 million tonnes, sufficient for 25 days of consumption. This achievement, driven by the Indian Railways' silo loading, significantly strengthens India's energy security.
Key Takeaways
- Coal stock at thermal power plants has reached 58.25 million tonnes.
- This stock is sufficient for 25 days of consumption.
- Silo loading operations by Indian Railways have significantly improved coal logistics.
- Enhanced silo loading ensures uniform sizing and reduces wagon damage.
- Record stockpile bolsters India’s energy security.
New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) The coal stock at thermal power plants has soared to an unprecedented 58.25 million tonnes, adequate to sustain consumption for 25 days. This milestone is attributed to the efficient silo loading operations by the Indian Railways, as announced on Tuesday.
In recent years, the percentage of coal loaded via silos has significantly increased — from 18.8 percent in 2022–23 to 29 percent in the current fiscal year, showcasing a determined effort to enhance coal logistics, according to a statement from the Ministry of Railways.
This achievement was a focal point during a high-level meeting between Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, where they evaluated coal logistics and the efficacy of transportation systems.
The discussion primarily revolved around accelerating the development of silo loading infrastructure, which is vital for improving both the quality and speed of coal evacuation.
Silo loading is a mechanized technique for transferring bulk materials (such as coal) directly into railway wagons from a storage silo, in contrast to traditional methods like front-end loaders or manual shoveling.
This method guarantees uniform coal sizing, alleviates issues related to oversized boulders at power plants, minimizes wagon damage, and promotes reliable operations that are resilient to inclement weather.
During the meeting, the ministers assessed ongoing and planned projects aimed at expanding silo infrastructure in key coalfields. They also emphasized the importance of enhanced inter-ministerial collaboration to ensure smooth operations from mine to plant.
The ministry highlighted that this significant achievement in coal stock — now at an all-time high of 58.25 million tonnes — is adequate for 25 days of consumption.
This record stockpile strengthens India’s energy security, guarantees continuous power supply during peak summer periods, and offers assurance of sufficient stock for the upcoming monsoon, when coal production and transport typically face challenges due to heavy rainfall.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the significance of the recent increase in coal stock at thermal power plants. This achievement not only reflects the efficiency of our logistics but also plays a crucial role in ensuring energy stability during critical periods. Our nation continues to prioritize energy security, and such milestones are a testament to our commitment to reliable power supply.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current coal stock at thermal power plants?
The coal stock at thermal power plants has reached an all-time high of 58.25 million tonnes.
How long will the current coal stock last?
The current coal stock is sufficient to meet consumption needs for 25 days.
What is silo loading?
Silo loading is a mechanized process for loading bulk materials like coal directly into railway wagons from storage silos.
Why is the increase in coal stock significant?
The increase in coal stock is significant as it enhances India's energy security and provides assurance of uninterrupted power supply during peak summer and monsoon seasons.
Who is responsible for the increase in coal logistics efficiency?
The Indian Railways has played a crucial role in improving coal logistics through enhanced silo loading operations.
