A two-day training-cum-workshop on “Ground Water Regulation and Control” was organised at MCL Headquarters, Sambalpur, in association with the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), New Delhi and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), South Eastern Region, Bhubaneswar, bringing together experts, officials and industry representatives to strengthen understanding of groundwater regulation and compliance.

The inaugural session was graced by Pratul Saxena, Member Secretary, CGWA, as Chief Guest and Bikram Kumar Sahoo, Regional Director, CGWB, Bhubaneswar, as Guest of Honour, along with other dignitaries. Scientists and officials from CGWA and CGWB, representatives from various industries, Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries, and Area General Managers actively participated in the workshop.

CMD Uday A. Kaole in his address, stressed upon the importance of greater clarity and proactive compliance in groundwater management. He highlighted MCL’s contribution of over 21% to the nation’s coal production, underscoring the need for responsible groundwater management.

Across the two days, expert sessions covered groundwater guidelines and amendments, mine applications, NOC compliance, groundwater charges, EC, penalties, EIA requirements and evaluation, and the BhuNeer App, including new and renewal applications and other modules.

The programme also featured interactions, discussions and feedback sessions, providing a valuable platform for strengthening regulatory understanding and promoting sustainable groundwater management.