Keeping its eyes on the target of generating 19,000MW of power from coal by 2030, Bangladesh has decided that it will invest heavily in coal-based power generation.
Given our current energy needs, it is understandable that Bangladesh cannot afford to keep its coal underground. However, as a densely populated country that relies heavily on farming, we must proceed with extreme caution if we are to invest in coal.
There is a risk that large areas of land may be ruined and thousands of families may be displaced as a result of open-pit coal mining. Locals and environmental activists in Phulbari have been concerned that farm lands may be permanently ruined by pollution from the coal mine and depletion of groundwater, and have opposed Asia Energy’s initiative to mine coal there. These fears are not unfounded -- such effects have indeed been observed in several countries where open-pit coal mining was pursued.
Because of these environmental costs, it makes sense to tax open-pit coal mining to compensate funding for the families and individuals who are adversely affected. In some countries, families living within 10km of an open-pit coal mine have demanded compensation for degradation of their farm land.
It is very important then, that if we do invest in coal, we do so with our eyes wide open. A thorough and credible study on the economic benefits of using coal versus the costs of damage and re-location should be conducted.
We need to plan out possible scenarios in which families may have to relocate, and how they can be compensated. This compensation can be paid for by the coal itself -- this is the fairest solution.