Lok Sabha Question No. 2898 (UNSTARRED), answered on 2025-08-06
Subject: Development of Closed Coal Mines as Tourist Places
Ministry: COAL
Asked by: Shri Kuldeep Indora

## GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COAL

## LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-†2898

ANSWERED ON- 06/08/2025

## DEVELOPMENT OF CLOSED COAL MINES AS TOURIST PLACES

## †2898. SHRI KULDEEP INDORA:

Will the Minister of COAL be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the closed coal mines have been redeveloped as tourist spots, cultural centres,  reservoirs  or  for  industrial  use  in  countries  like  Germany,  United  Kingdom  and Australia;

(b) if so, whether the Government also proposes to redevelop, beautify or repurpose the closed coal mines in the country;

(c) if so, the names of the major projects in the country where closed coal mines are being converted or have been converted into new forms; and

(d)  whether  the  Government  is  ensuring  that  alternative  employment,  social  security  or financial assistance is provided to the workers employed in the mines after their closure and if so, the details thereof?

## ANSWER MINISTER OF COAL AND MINES (SHRI G. KISHAN REDDY)

(a) Yes, in countries such as Germany, United Kingdom and Australia, a few closed coal mines have been repurposed into tourist spots, cultural centres, reservoirs or for industrial purposes etc.

(b) Yes.

(c) Coal and Lignite Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) have undertaken various repurposing initiatives,  such  as  the  development  of  eco-parks,  mine  tourism  sites,  recreational  parks, pisciculture in mine voids, solar power projects and other community-oriented facilities. Some notable examples include:

- Bishrampur  (Kenapara)  and  Ananya  Vatika  in  South  Eastern  Coalfields  Limited (SECL)
- Saoner Eco Park in Western Coalfields Limited (WCL)
- Kayakalp Vatika and Pisciculture at Kerketta Mine Void in Central Coalfields Limited (CCL)
- C S Azad Eco Park at Orient Mine No. 4 in Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL)
- Sindoor Eco Park and Mango Orchard at Jhanjra in Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL)
- Parasnath Udyan in Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL)

In India, closure and repurposing of coal mines are now undertaken as per the Guidelines for Preparation of Mining Plan and Mine Closure Plan for Coal and Lignite Blocks-2025. These guidelines emphasize  scientific and  socially responsible  mine  closure,  including  land reclamation,  environmental  restoration  and  post-mining  utilization  for  community  and economic  benefit.  These  guidelines  provide  detailed  directions  for  minimizing  long-term ecological  damage,  rehabilitating  land  for  multiple  uses  and  integrating  activities  such  as agriculture, pisciculture, eco-parks, waterbody restoration, green energy projects and cultural or heritage promotion. These guidelines also encourage engagement of local communities in operation and maintenance of public spaces, fostering employment and enhancing the cultural relevance of post-mining land use.

(d)  Coal/Lignite  PSUs are  currently  augmenting production to meet the  country's  growing energy needs. In cases where a mine is closed due to resource exhaustion, permanent workers are redeployed to other operating mines, ensuring continuity of employment.

Additionally, as per the Mine Closure Guidelines and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies, PSUs undertake skill development and livelihood programmes for local communities to  enhance  employability  and  create  alternative  income  opportunities.  The  Guidelines  for Preparation of Mining Plan and Mine Closure Plan for Coal and Lignite Blocks-2025 mandate that a minimum of 25% of the five-yearly escrow amount deposited for mine closure is to be utilized  for  community  development  and  livelihood  activities.  Further,  these  guidelines stipulates that 10% of the final mine closure cost is earmarked for Just Transformation. This amount is to be used in consultation with district administration and stakeholders for socioeconomic transition, skill development and sustained livelihood support in post-mining areas.