Bengal accuses Centre of delaying green clearances for coal mining

Kolkata: West Bengal government on Saturday accused the Centre of delaying environmental and forest clearances in order to commence coal mining activities in allotted mines and also sought supports from "clean energy fund" to stimulate green energy generation in the state.

"We are not able to commence operations in some allotted coal mines because the Centre is delaying in giving forest and environmental clearances," said state Power Minister Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay.

Coal cess has been increased exponentially and freight cost was rising, he said, adding that cost of power generation is also soaring, which affects industries as well as households.

The state has been dismantling old thermal plants which are being replaced by modernised units, Chattopadhyay said.

"Speedy clearance from central government would give us benefits in producing more coal for captive purposes and reduce the cost of power generation," he said.

"We need cooperation and assistance from the Centre for renewable energy and are seeking funds from the clean energy funds for green energy generation," he said, on the sidelines of a seminar organised by Assocham.