Centre Launches Drive To Expand Coal Bed Methane Exploration In New Areas

New Delhi, Jan 1 (KNN) The Indian government has launched a focused exploration drive to boost coal bed methane (CBM) production in unexplored and abandoned coal-bearing areas, aiming to expand the country’s unconventional gas production and strengthen energy security.

Expansion into New Areas

Officials said the Ministry of Coal will evaluate CBM potential in both previously untapped coalfields and de-coaled or abandoned mines that are unsuitable for conventional coal extraction. 

Central public sector enterprise Coal India Limited (CIL) and its subsidiaries are identifying coal-bearing areas under their leaseholds for CBM exploration and production. A block in Jharkhand’s Jharia region has already been awarded for CBM development.

Clean Energy and Emissions Benefits

India has significant untapped CBM resources estimated at about 92 trillion cubic feet spread across 12 states, including West Bengal, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Production Targets and Outlook

While current CBM production stands at around 2.27 million metric standard cubic metres per day, officials said the government aims to nearly double this output to 5 MMSCMD by 2027–28, reducing dependence on imported natural gas and bolstering domestic energy supply. 

So far, about 40 CBM blocks have been awarded, with 15 blocks active for exploration and development.

(KNN Bureau)