The Ministry of Coal clarifies that Uttar Pradesh's thermal power plants are not in the critical-stock category and advises the state to prioritize development of its captive coal block, Saharpur Jamarpani. The ministry also notes improvements in coal stock and rail supplies, but highlights operational constraints at various plants.
Recent media reports have suggested a severe power shortage in Uttar Pradesh due to disrupted coal supply. However, the Ministry of Coal has clarified that none of Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited's (UPRVUNL) thermal power plants are in the critical-stock category as of 15.09.2026.
The Ministry has advised Uttar Pradesh to expedite development of the Saharpur Jamarpani coal block, allotted to UPRVUNL in 2015 under the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015. The coal block holds reserves of over 973 million tonnes and remains undeveloped due to a lack of requisite initiative by UPRVUNL.
Coal India Limited (CIL) continues to fully support UPRVUNL, with coal stock at UPRVUNL's thermal power plants improving steadily. As of 01.09.2026, the coal stock was at 7.25 lakh tonnes (LT), which rose to 8.41 LT by 15.09.2026. Over the last seven days, average daily coal receipt has exceeded average daily consumption, reflecting a continuing build-up of stock.
The Ministry also notes that unloading constraints at various plants and operational limitations have led to a lower Plant Load Factor (PLF) of around 48% during the current month. The ministry advises UPRVUNL to address these operational constraints to ensure optimal utilisation of available coal stock.
By contrast, fourteen other captive coal blocks allotted for captive use in the power sector on or after the date of allotment of Saharpur Jamarpani have already been operationalised and have commenced coal production for their respective end-use plants.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
