Initiative to Extract Coal from Jamalganj Mine Underway.
The Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company (Bapex) is set to conduct a two-dimensional (2D) seismic survey over a 15-kilometer stretch of the Jamalganj coal mine in Joypurhat, with parts of Naogaon also included. This initiative, in collaboration with Barapukuria Coal Mine Company Limited (BCMCL), aims to assess the feasibility of extracting coal from the site.
The project, approved by Petrobangla, has an estimated cost exceeding Tk 100 crore. The survey will guide decisions on whether the coal will be mined using open-pit or underground methods, or if underground coal gasification (ECG) will be implemented, a possibility being considered by the Energy Department.
Coal Reserves in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has five coal mines, all located in the northern region, with a combined reserve of 7,832 million tons. If 20% is extractable, this would amount to approximately 1,564.6 million tons, capable of meeting energy demands equivalent to 40.6 TCF of gas.
Key coal mines include:
- Barapukuria (Dinajpur): 410 million tons (200 million extractable)
- Dighipara (Nawabganj): 706 million tons (90 million extractable)
- Khalaspir (Rangpur): 685 million tons (80 million extractable)
- Phulbari (Dinajpur): 572 million tons (470 million extractable)
- Jamalganj (Joypurhat): 5,450 million tons (1,005 million extractable)
Significance
Coal-based power plants contribute significantly to Bangladesh’s electricity generation, currently providing 25% of the total capacity. However, the country remains dependent on costly coal imports for major power plants like Payra, Rampal, and S. Alam Group’s facilities. Utilizing domestic coal reserves, particularly from Jamalganj, could reduce reliance on imports and secure long-term energy needs.
The government’s decision on extraction methods will follow the survey results, which are expected to shape Bangladesh’s energy future.
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