In a significant stride towards environmental preservation, South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Ltd, is set to implement the Miyawaki method of plantation in its Gevra Area located in Chhattisgarh. This pioneering pilot project aims to bolster the green cover in the coal belt region, backed by a joint investment of Rs 4 crore in partnership with Chhattisgarh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (CGRVVN).

The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, is renowned for its rapid growth and dense foliage. SECL's initiative entails the plantation of approximately 20,000 saplings across a two-hectare area within a two-year timeframe. The plant selection comprises a diverse range of big, medium, and small species chosen for their resilience to harsh conditions and minimal maintenance requirements.

Anticipated to benefit local communities and wildlife surrounding the Gevra mine, the country's largest coal mine, this afforestation endeavor is expected to aid in dust absorption and regulation of surface temperatures within the region.

Additionally, SECL has outlined an expansive green initiative involving a substantial investment of Rs 169 crore over the next four years. This initiative encompasses collaborative agreements with CGRVVN and Madhya Pradesh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (MPRVVN) for plantation activities in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, spanning from 2023-24 to 2027-28, with maintenance scheduled for the subsequent four years.

SECL's staunch commitment to environmental conservation is underscored by its commendable track record of planting over three crore saplings since its inception. Notably, in the fiscal year 2023-24, the company achieved the highest green cover among all Coal India subsidiaries, planting 10.77 lakh saplings across 475 hectares.