Protests against the planned expansion of the Gevra coal mine in the eastern province of Chhattisgarh are posing a potential challenge to Coal India Ltd.'s efforts to secure approvals for increasing its annual capacity to 70 million tons. Coal India Ltd. is currently engaged in discussions with local residents who are opposed to the expansion, which would result in one of the world's largest coal mining operations.

The protests at the Gevra site could complicate the company's ability to obtain the necessary approvals for the capacity expansion. If successful, the mine would become the largest global source of coal, according to Coal India. As India faces rising power demand and prioritizes energy security, the country aims to boost coal production, which currently accounts for around 70% of electricity generation.

Residents residing near the Gevra area have raised concerns regarding air pollution, the impact on groundwater levels, and compensation for acquired land. Deepak Sahu, the joint secretary for Korba district where the mine is located, mentioned these concerns on behalf of Chhattisgarh Kisan Sabha, a farmers' union in the state. Coal India and its subsidiaries have encountered challenges in expanding operations in various regions, including Chhattisgarh. Recently, a public hearing was held at the Gevra site.

In response to the protests, a spokesperson from Southeastern Coalfields Ltd., the unit operating Gevra, stated that the company has implemented significant measures to address pollution associated with the mining process. Studies have reportedly shown no impact on groundwater levels in the Korba district. The unit provided 700 jobs in exchange for land last year, the highest number in a decade, and has increased financial compensation for land, according to the spokesperson.