G. Kishan Reddy Reviews Rehabilitation Works Under Revised Jharia Master Plan

G. Kishan Reddy, reviewed the progress of rehabilitation works in the Jharia Coalfield and inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple people-centric projects at the Belgaria and Karmatand Rehabilitation Sites under the Revised Jharia Master Plan (RJMP). The Minister was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by CISF personnel at BCCL Guest house.

The Revised Jharia Master Plan (RJMP), approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on 25 June 2025, aims to address long-standing challenges relating to mine fires, land subsidence and rehabilitation in the Jharia Coalfield. Under the RJMP, rehabilitation of non-BCCL families from endangered areas is being undertaken by the Jharia Rehabilitation and Development Authority (JRDA) under the State Government, while Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) is responsible for rehabilitation of families within its operational areas.

Belgaria Rehabilitation Township

At the Belgaria Rehabilitation Township, the Minister inaugurated the Administrative Building of JRDA and a Public Distribution System (PDS) Shop, established to ensure round-the-clock governance, efficient colony management and time-bound grievance redressal for residents.

The Minister also laid foundation stones for key infrastructure projects, including road widening works (Phases II and III) to support growing population needs; installation of 500 LED solar street lights to improve safety and promote environment-friendly infrastructure; balance development works for Phases IV, VI, VII and VIII; and upgradation of the Primary School into a model school with modern classrooms, digital learning facilities, sanitation infrastructure, power backup and improved educational amenities.

Belgaria, the largest resettlement township developed by JRDA, has been conceived as a comprehensive rehabilitation hub. Developed across eight phases with 1,191 blocks, the township comprises a total of 18,272 houses, supported by robust civic, social, and community infrastructure. The JRDA Administrative Building and PDS Shop have been completed at a project cost of ₹1.23 crore.

As part of a significant livelihood support initiative, 11 e-rickshaws were distributed to rehabilitated families under BCCL’s CSR programme, enabling sustainable income generation and self-employment opportunities.

The Minister commended the progress achieved at Belgaria and emphasized the importance of timely execution, high-quality construction and livelihood-oriented rehabilitation to ensure safe, dignified and sustainable living conditions for affected families.