India's coal supplies to power sector surge 36% from September lows

India's coal supplies to the power sector have increased by approximately 36 per cent from September lows, signalling improving fuel availability for the nation's electricity generation, the Coal Ministry said on Friday.

The rate at which coal inventories are being depleted has moderated significantly, declining to 0.116 million tonnes per day in October compared to 0.243 million tonnes daily in September—a reduction of more than 50 per cent. Rail loading has correspondingly strengthened, with freight reaching an average of over 465 rakes per day in October, achieving the 470-rake daily target on three consecutive occasions, the ministry noted.

Supplementary coal transportation through road and other modes has also improved, the ministry said. While the pace of inventory drawdown has slowed markedly, the ministry clarified that stock rebuilding has not yet commenced, indicating the situation remains in stabilisation phase.

The ministry's statement comes as media reports have raised concerns about potential power shortages amid lower coal stockpiles at thermal power plants. The Coal Ministry sought to address these apprehensions, underscoring the improved supply trajectory and the stabilising position of coal availability across the power generation sector.