Critical Coal Stock Levels at Indian Power Plants Amid Rain Disruptions
• As of 20 September 2026, nearly 38 per cent of domestic coal-based power plants in India are critically low on coal stocks due to prolonged rains disrupting mining operations in the eastern coal belt. The number of plants with less than 25 per cent of their normative coal stock requirement has risen to
• Imported coal-based plants are also affected, with eight out of 15 plants reporting critical stock levels. Coal consumption has increased by 8 per cent year-on-year, driven by high power demand following a hot summer and below-average monsoon rainfall.
Impact & Risks
The critical coal stock levels pose risks to uninterrupted power generation across India. Prolonged rains have hampered coal mining and transportation, leading to insufficient replenishment of inventories. This situation could result in power outages and increased operational costs for power plants. Additionally, the mismatch between coal demand and transportation capacity may exacerbate the issue, affecting industries and households reliant on thermal power.
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