Recent reports of a coal inventory shortage affecting thermal plants, especially in Punjab, have caused enough distress. Coal stocks at thermal generators have fallen to nearly 27 million tonnes, enough for up to nine days of normal operations, below the recommended 19-day requirement. As of last week, the number of power stations facing critically low fuel reserves has grown to 58 from 46 in August.

Coal Supply Faces Logistics Issues

This requires urgent attention, but the Ministry of Coal and Coal India have assured states that pithead stocks are sufficient and that rail shipments are being increased to fill the gap. That is where lies the crux of the problem. India does not have a coal shortage, but the coal supply is riddled........

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