The Barapukuria Coal Mining Company Limited (BCMCL) in Parbatipur, Dinajpur, has been facing severe operational challenges that could lead to a shutdown within the next two to three years.
Excessive coal stockpiling, declining demand from the adjacent thermal power plant, uncertainty over the upcoming annual general meeting (AGM), underground fire incidents, and structural damage have placed the mine at significant risks, according to internal sources.
According to the insiders, only one of the three units of the 525 MW Barapukuria thermal power plant is currently operational, significantly reducing daily coal consumption. As a result, the mine is now storing approximately 445,000 metric tons of coal-three times the safe storage limit.
Authorities warn that excessive stockpiling increases the risk of harmful gas emissions and spontaneous combustion. Multiple letters have been sent to the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), but no substantial action has reportedly been taken.
Sources stated a section of the mine that was sealed in 2018 due to fire experienced a new ignition on November 19. Chinese contractors have been working to control the fire. The closed tunnel poses heightened risks for underground workers.
In addition, a 32-foot safety wall collapsed last Wednesday (November 26) due to the pressure of excess coal.
The mine continues to extract 4,500-5,000 tons of coal per day from the 1414 phase.
When contacted, Chief Engineer of the thermal power plant, Abu Bakkar Siddique, said, "Two units are shut down due to mechanical issues. Once they are restored, coal consumption will return to normal."
Managing Director of the coal mine, Md. Abu Taleb Farazi, stated, "The fire reignited because air entered the sealed tunnel. It has been sealed again, and the fire will extinguish once oxygen is depleted. However, large coal stockpiles pose a significant risk, especially since no permission exists for coal sales outside the power plant."
In recent meetings, the BCMCL and Petrobangla boards refused to approve the financial audit report prepared using a coal price of USD 176 per ton. Officials claimed that there were verbal instructions to adjust the price in line with the international market.
The board instructed the company to revise the audit report and prepare for the AGM. If the AGM is not held by December 31, the company must seek approval from the High Court under the Companies Act of 1994.
