Check coal theft, Centre tells States

Coal producing States and companies in the business have been asked to take appropriate action to stop or curb theft/black marketing of the fuel.

In a statement issued here, the Ministry of Coal, said that law and order is a State subject, hence State/district administration are requested to take necessary deterrent action for the purpose. In the backdrop of the current situation where coal is in deficit, this move gathers significance.

Anti-theft measures

On their part, the companies have taken certain steps such as establishing check-posts at vulnerable points. The companies have also done wall fencing, lighting arrangements and deployment of armed guards round-the-clock around coal dumping yards.

Besides, regular patrolling is conducted in and around the mine including over burden dumps. Armed guards have been deployed at railway sidings and interaction and liaison with district officials is done at regular intervals.

The companies are also holding meetings with the district administration on a monthly basis.

To check theft, challans for coal transportation by trucks outside districts are being issued after fixing a hologram and putting signatures of authorised officials of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Also, regular FIRs are lodged by the management of the collieries and CISF with local police stations against any theft. A close watch on the activities of criminals is being maintained by CISF, the statement said.

The managements have been taking action for filling/dozing/scaling/blasting of the old/abandoned exposed coalfaces in a phased manner.

> richam@thehindu.co.in

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