Scholarly record

SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGES IN UNDERGROUND COAL MINING: A REVIEW OF BANGLADESH??S ALIGNMENT WITH THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS FRAMEWORK

Mohammad Forrukh Hossain Khan Khan, Istiak Ahmed

Abstract

Underground coal mining (UCM) is a key component of Bangladesh’s energy sector, particularly for electricity generation, with major reserves in Barapukuria, Phulbari, and Khalashpir. However, its sustainability is constrained by land subsidence, groundwater degradation, soil deterioration, and biodiversity loss, especially habitat fragmentation. These impacts are intensified by longwall mining practices with inadequate ground control and insufficient post-mining land rehabilitation. As a result, aligning coal mining activities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, SDG 8, SDG 12, and SDG 13, remains challenging. This study critically evaluates the environmental and socioeconomic challenges of UCM in Bangladesh and assesses emerging technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), Underground Coal Gasification (UCG), and automation to reduce environmental impacts and enhance efficiency. It also emphasizes sustainable approaches, including Concurrent Mining and Reclamation (CMR) and effective land restoration, to mitigate ecological damage. Furthermore, the study proposes policy recommendations focusing on regulatory strengthening, adoption of cleaner technologies, and social mitigation strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. The findings aim to support researchers and policymakers in aligning coal mining practices with sustainable development objectives.

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