Talcher, Odisha : Coal theft in Talcher is rising day by day, causing losses worth crores to both the central and state governments. In response, the Ghantapada Truck Owners Association submitted a memorandum to the Talcher Sub-Collector on behalf of the Chief Minister, demanding a high-level investigation into the ongoing coal pilferage.
The memorandum states that collusion between MCL and Coal Washery is causing huge financial losses for the government. Every day, thousands of tons of coal move through Global Coal Washery, but officials fail to monitor it properly, exacerbating the issue of Coal theft in Talcher. According to rules, 18 tons should move in a 10-wheeler truck and 22 tons in a 12-wheeler. However, trucks routinely carry more than the allowed load.
Truck owners claim that “while authorities weigh general vehicles at the bridge, they ignore the same rules in the washery area. Road Safety regulations allow 24-hour loading for washery trucks, while other trucks run only 12 hours (6 am to 6 pm)”. Yet, washery trucks routinely bypass these rules.
The association questioned why MCL shows leniency toward Global Coal Washery operators while enforcing strict rules on regular truck owners. They urged SIT or CBI to conduct a proper investigation to uncover the truth and prevent further loss of government revenue.
The memorandum copies went to the Sub-Collector of Talcher, Anugul District Security Officer, Talcher Deputy Mining Director, Talcher SDPO, and Police Stations in Talcher, Colliery, and Bikrampur.
Leaders present during the memorandum handover included Raj Kishore Sahu, Ashok Das, Bapun Sahu, Jinesh Sahu, Aravya Sahu, Ajit Sahu, Paresh Pradhan, Sila Sahu, Sanjay Swain, Lipu Dehuri, Anil Pradhan, Prakash Sahu, Deepak Dehuri, and Ashwini Dehuri.
The association hopes a high-level inquiry will bring transparency, curb coal theft, and safeguard government revenue while ensuring fair treatment for all truck operators.
