The Thar Coal Railway project in Pakistan has sparked debates among experts due to environmental concerns. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Thar Coal Railway
Photo: CPEC

The Thar Coal Railway construction project, stretching 105 km in Pakistan, has sparked widespread expert discussions. This railway will connect a lignite coal field in Tharparkar, ranked sixth in global reserves, to Mirpurkhas.

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The railway aims to transport coal for supplying power plants, cement factories, and fertilizer plants with fuel. As part of the project, a 9-km dual-track line will be constructed to serve two power plants near Port Qasim.

The construction cost is estimated at ₹58.2 billion, approximately $209.6 million. The project will enable the transportation of up to 10 million tons of coal annually. It aligns with a strategy to shift power plants from imported fuel to cheaper domestic resources. The federal government and Sindh provincial authorities are financing the project. This is seen as a crucial initiative to reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imported coal.

Thar Coal Railway: Environmental Risks and Local Community Impact

However, the project has faced sharp criticism from the Policy Research Institute for Equitable Development (PRIED). PRIED experts argue that building the railway and expanding coal mining could lead to serious environmental consequences. Their report highlights potential health and food security risks for local communities without compensatory measures. Experts warn that environmental damage might outweigh the financial benefits of using domestic resources.

One of the key concerns is the potential degradation of air and water quality in areas near the railway and coal field. This could negatively affect the health of residents and agricultural activities. The report also questions whether the expected economic benefits, like lower electricity, cement, or fertilizer costs, will materialize. These cost-saving forecasts remain controversial given the possible environmental risks.

Thar Coal Railway: Economic Viability and Future Prospects

PRIED experts insist the project requires further analysis and strategies to minimize its environmental impact. They propose compensatory mechanisms, such as land restoration after coal mining and improving water supply infrastructure. Furthermore, they recommend increasing local community involvement in decision-making to address their interests and concerns. Such measures could help mitigate social and environmental risks associated with the project.

Aside from environmental concerns, experts emphasize the need to assess the project’s economic viability in the context of global coal prices. In the long term, transitioning to local resources may not meet expectations if coal prices drop internationally. This could make the project less profitable, creating new economic challenges for Pakistan. Nevertheless, the government believes the project aligns with national interests, particularly reducing reliance on imported fuel.

Despite the criticism, Pakistan’s federal and Sindh provincial governments continue to support the Thar Coal Railway project. They argue the project will strengthen the region’s economy, create jobs, and improve infrastructure. Additionally, it is viewed as part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s energy independence and reduce import costs. The authorities believe that, if properly executed, the project will deliver significant economic benefits and promote sustainable development.

PRIED experts maintain that environmental risks must be addressed and minimized. They stress that the project’s success depends not only on its economic results but also on managing environmental and social impacts. Only a comprehensive approach to implementing the project will help prevent negative consequences for local communities and the environment.

Therefore, the Thar Coal Railway construction continues to spark heated debates. On one side, the government sees it as an opportunity for economic growth and energy independence. On the other, experts warn of potential environmental and social consequences that could threaten sustainable development in the region.

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