Raigarh Communities Demand Clarity on Land, Jobs, and Environmental Impact
RAIGARH (India CSR): The Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board will hold a critical public hearing in Dhourabhatha, Raigarh, to address concerns surrounding Jindal Power Limited’s (JPL) Gare Palma Sector-1 coal block. As one of three major coal projects set to transform Raigarh’s mining landscape, JPL’s initiative is expected to produce 15 million tonnes of coal annually, matching the district’s current output when combined with other projects. However, local communities are raising serious concerns about land acquisition, compensation, employment, and environmental impacts, demanding transparency before granting approval. This article explores the stakes, community demands, and the broader implications of this coal block development.
A New Chapter in Raigarh’s Coal Mining Boom
Raigarh, a key coal-producing region in Chhattisgarh, is witnessing a surge in mining activity with three major coal blocks under development by Jindal Power Limited, Mahagenco, and SECL. JPL’s Gare Palma Sector-1 coal block, secured through a competitive auction in 2025, is a fully explored mine with geological reserves of 965 million tonnes and a peak rated capacity of 15 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The project, combining opencast and underground mining, spans 3,020 hectares, including 120 hectares of forest land, and will impact 14 villages, including Aamgaon, Dhourabhatha, Libra, and Tangarghat.
The public hearing, scheduled for October 14 at the weekly market ground near Dhourabhatha’s government middle school, aims to gather input from affected communities as mandated by environmental regulations. The Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board has released summary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports in English and Hindi, available for public review at various government offices. This hearing follows a controversial precedent set by Mahagenco’s Gare Palma Sector-2 project, where forest clearing sparked protests, highlighting the need for transparent community engagement.
Community Concerns Take Center Stage
Residents of the 14 affected villages have expressed significant apprehension about JPL’s project. On August 27, 2025, the Tehsildar of Tamnar ordered gram sabhas to be held within 15 days to discuss the coal block proposal. However, villagers have refused to proceed without detailed information, citing inadequate communication from JPL and authorities. In a letter to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), locals demanded clarity on several fronts, including land acquisition processes, compensation rates, employment opportunities, and environmental safeguards.
The proposed acquisition of 3,020 hectares, including 77.019 hectares of revenue forest land for initial mine access, has raised alarms about displacement and loss of livelihoods. Villagers are particularly concerned about the lack of a clear rehabilitation policy for displaced families, including landless households, and the absence of guaranteed job opportunities for certified farmers and their families. Women in the affected areas have also emphasized the need for specific facilities to address their concerns, such as access to healthcare and vocational training.
Environmental and Social Impacts Under Scrutiny
The environmental implications of JPL’s coal block are a major point of contention. The project’s combination of opencast and underground mining is expected to produce significant pollution, including air and water contamination, which could affect local agriculture and water sources. Villagers have demanded detailed information on pollution mitigation measures, such as dust control, wastewater management, and reforestation plans. The inclusion of 120 hectares of forest land in the project area has further fueled concerns, given the ecological sensitivity of the region and the precedent of protests over forest clearing in nearby projects.
Compensation is another critical issue. Communities are seeking clarity on whether payments will be handled by the government or JPL, the timeline for disbursements, and the rates for acquired land. The lack of transparency regarding the boundaries of the affected areas has added to the uncertainty, with villagers insisting on a detailed demarcation before any land is transferred. These demands reflect a broader call for accountability, as locals fear that rushed processes could exacerbate their vulnerabilities.
JPL’s Track Record and Economic Implications
Jindal Power Limited, a subsidiary of Jindal Steel & Power, has a significant presence in Raigarh’s industrial landscape, with its 4,294 MW power generation capacity in the region. The Gare Palma Sector-1 coal block, secured at a 9% bid premium, is expected to generate annual revenue of Rs. 1,968 crore and attract a capital investment of Rs. 2,250 crore upon operationalization. The coal will primarily fuel JPL’s Raigarh plant and captive power facilities, strengthening its energy portfolio.
However, JPL’s history with coal block auctions has not been without controversy. In 2015, the company faced scrutiny when its bids for other Gare Palma blocks were deemed too low by the Coal Ministry, and earlier allocations were canceled by the Supreme Court in 2014. These precedents have heightened local skepticism, with communities wary of corporate promises that may not materialize.
A Call for Transparent Engagement
The public hearing on October 14 will be a pivotal moment for JPL to address community concerns and demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development. Villagers have made it clear that they will not issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) until their demands are met. Key among these is a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that ensures fair compensation, employment opportunities for both men and women, and robust environmental protections. The involvement of local gram panchayats, as directed by the Tehsildar, underscores the importance of grassroots input in shaping the project’s future.
Authorities have urged stakeholders to submit written responses to the Regional Office of the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board by the hearing date, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue. The outcome of this process will likely influence public perception of JPL’s project and set a precedent for future coal block developments in Raigarh.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Growth and Sustainability
The Gare Palma Sector-1 coal block represents both an economic opportunity and a social challenge for Raigarh. While the project promises significant revenue and energy security, its success hinges on addressing the legitimate concerns of affected communities. As India pushes to expand its coal production to meet energy demands, the tension between industrial growth and environmental sustainability remains a critical issue. The October 14 hearing will be a litmus test for whether JPL and the authorities can strike a balance that benefits both the economy and the people of Raigarh.
As the date approaches, all eyes will be on Dhourabhatha, where the voices of local residents will shape the future of this ambitious project. The outcome could redefine how corporate giants like JPL engage with communities in India’s resource-rich regions.
(India CSR)
