The West Bengal government is making significant strides in exploring underground coal gasification as a method of coal extraction at the Deocha-Pachami block in Birbhum district. This coal block, which is considered India's largest and the world’s second-largest reserve, poses challenges for traditional mining due to basalt rock in the area. In response, the government has decided to use a combination of open-cast mining, underground mining, and gasification to tap into the coal deposits.

A top official revealed that while the open-cast mining in parts of the block will begin in the first week of February, 30% of the coal deposit will be explored via underground coal gasification. This new method, being promoted for its potential to reduce carbon emissions and enhance clean energy production, is part of a larger Rs 35,000-crore project.

The West Bengal Power Development Corporation Ltd. (WBPDCL) is overseeing the project. In the initial phase, they will focus on removing overburden before advancing with the open-cast mining. Additionally, a pilot underground coal gasification project is set to be launched to assess feasibility, particularly in areas where coal lies up to 400 meters deep.

The state’s decision to incorporate underground coal gasification follows national policy support for such initiatives, which aim to reduce the carbon footprint. Other entities, such as Coal India Ltd. and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd., are also engaged in similar projects across India, further validating the viability of this approach.

The Deocha-Pachami coal block, allocated to the state in 2018, is expected to have a transformative effect on West Bengal's energy and industrial landscape. The project will not only meet the state's growing energy demands but also open up economic opportunities for the Birbhum district. However, the basalt rock challenges are being addressed by a special mining developer who will share 71% of the revenue generated from basalt mining with the state government.