CHANDRAPUR

Chandrapur district is rich in natural resources, particularly coal, which has fueled the growth of coal mining and related industries. The region also has deposits of bauxite, nickel, copper, fluorides, and iron ore, supporting cement, plywood, and paper manufacturing. Major coal mines operate in Chandrapur, Ghuggus, Ballarpur, Majari, and Murpar (Chimur).

Chandrapur district is a key player in Maharashtra's coal mining sector, featuring several important mining areas such as Ghuggus, Ballarpur, and Rajura. The Ballarpur Underground Coal Mine stands out as a significant operation, employing the bord and pillar mining technique to extract subbituminous coal.

The coal mining industry in this district not only provides direct employment but also generates numerous ancillary job opportunities across related sectors.

The paper manufacturing sector in Chandrapur district is primarily represented by Ballarpur Industries Limited (BILT), a leading name in India's paper industry and a significant global player. Founded in 1945, BILT operates a large facility in Ballarpur, focusing on the production of various paper products, particularly writing and printing papers.

This industry thrives primarily due to the abundant availability of limestone, which is a key raw material for cement manufacturing. Some of the cement-producing companies in the district  include ACC Limited and Shree Cement, which have established large-scale production facilities. The proximity to coal mines also enhances the operational efficiency of these cement plants, as coal is essential for energy generation during the production process.

Chandrapur district ranks fourth in rice production in Maharashtra, leading to the establishment of numerous rice mills that enhance the rice value chain. These mills help farmers secure better prices and ensure a steady supply of processed rice to the market. While wheat and sorghum are also cultivated, rice remains central to the district's agricultural economy.

The Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS), operated by MAHAGENCO, is Maharashtra’s largest coal-fired power plant, with a capacity of 3,340 MW, supplying over 25% of the state's electricity. Commissioned in 1984 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it sources coal from Durgapur and Padmapur Collieries and water from the Erai Dam, supplemented by Chargaon Dam during shortages. Located in Urjanagar, 10 km from Chandrapur, the plant has nine units, with the latest expansion completed in 2016. CSTPS remains vital to Maharashtra’s energy infrastructure, supporting industrial and domestic needs.

The cotton weaving tradition in Chandrapur is deeply rooted, with the Bhavsar community specializing in dyeing cotton yarn. Locally woven cotton fabrics are valued for their durability and high quality.

Paithani sarees, known for their intricate zari work, are another hallmark of the region’s textile craftsmanship. According to the locals, the Pavtekar and Chapade communities contribute to the detailed weaving process, while artisans from the Sonar community enhance these sarees with gold and silver embellishments. Additionally, silk sarees featuring ornamental Ruipluli borders are widely recognized, with women from the Sali, Koshti, and Momin communities handling the intricate silk separation and winding processes.

Pottery making remains a significant craft in Chandrapur and Bhadravati, where local artisans produce clay pots, terracotta art, and functional pottery. Workshops in urban areas encourage pottery enthusiasts to engage in this traditional craft.

One notable SEZ in Chandrapur is the Wardha Power Company Ltd., located at the Wardha Growth Center in Warora, which is specifically designated for the power sector. This SEZ was officially notified in 2008 and aims to foster development in energy production, leveraging the district's abundant coal resources.

The environmental impact of industries in Chandrapur district is profound and alarming, primarily driven by the operations of the Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS), which has been a significant source of pollution since its establishment. This facility releases approximately 7,100 metric tonnes of fly ash daily, a carcinogenic by-product of coal combustion, along with 2,900 metric tonnes of bottom ash that poses risks to groundwater contamination. The air quality in Chandrapur has deteriorated drastically, with the Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) scoring a concerning 76.41 in 2019. In January 2022, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a dangerous level of 400, making it one of the most polluted cities in India.