INTRODUCTION
The Directorate of Coal Mines Development (DCMD) was established in 2010 under the administrative control of the Coal & Energy Development Department, Government of, and was subsequently merged into the Energy Department on 13 November 2013. The Directorate serves as the principal regulatory body responsible for the exploration, development, and management of coal resources across Sindh.
DCMD regulates mining concessions, grants exploration licenses and mining leases, monitors mining operations, collects royalties and development cess, conducts geological surveys and mapping, and assists the Government of Sindh in formulating policies and regulatory frameworks for the sustainable development of the coal sector.
Sindh is endowed with some of the largest coal reserves in the world, including the Thar, Lakhra, Sonda-Jherruck, and Khanot coalfields, which collectively represent a strategic resource for Pakistan’s energy security, industrial growth, and economic development.
VISION
To ensure the sustainable development and efficient utilization of Sindh’s coal resources for energy security, industrial progress, economic prosperity, and the welfare of future generations.
Mission
- To regulate and facilitate coal exploration and mining activities in Sindh.
- To promote responsible and environmentally sustainable resource development.
- To encourage domestic and foreign investment in the coal sector.
- To maximize provincial revenue through effective management of mining concessions.
- To support the development of indigenous energy resources for Pakistan’s long-term energy security.
COALFIELDS OF SINDH
Thar Coalfield
Located in District Tharparkar, the Thar Coalfield contains approximately 175 billion tonnes of lignite coal reserves, making it one of the largest coal deposits in the world. Commercial mining operations are currently underway in Block-I and Block-II.
Block-I, operated by Sino Sindh Resources (Pvt.) Limited (SSRL), comprises a 7.8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) open-pit lignite mine integrated with a 2 × 660 MW coal-fired power plant. Mine development commenced in March 2020, commercial production began in October 2022, and the project has produced approximately 3.75 million tonnes of coal.
Block-II, operated by Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC), is Pakistan’s first large-scale open-pit lignite mine. The mine currently supplies coal to multiple mine-mouth power plants and is undergoing further expansion to meet growing energy demand.
LAKHRA COALFIELD,JAMSHORO
Located in District Jamshoro, the Lakhra Coalfield is one of Pakistan’s oldest coal-producing regions, possessing 1.328 Billion Metric Tons . The coalfield has played a significant role in supplying coal to local industries and remains an important contributor to the country’s indigenous energy resources.
SONDA-JHERRUCK COALFIELD,THATTA
Situated in District Thatta, the Sonda-Jherruck Coalfield contains substantial lignite reserves exceeding 7 billion tonnes. Its proximity to Karachi and major industrial centers makes it a promising location for future coal-based power generation and industrial development projects.
BADIN COALFILED
Badin Coalfield, situated in District Badin, contains substantial lignite reserves of approximately 1.358 billion metric tons. However, it has yet to be exploited for commercial purposes.
ACHIEVEMENTS
- Facilitated the development of the Thar Coalfield, one of the world’s largest lignite coal reserves.
- Supported the establishment and operation of coal mining projects in Block-I and Block-II of the Thar Coalfield.
- Enabled the development of indigenous coal-based power generation projects contributing over 2,600 MW to the national grid.
- Regulated and monitored coal exploration and mining activities across the Thar, Lakhra, Sonda-Jherruck, and Khanot coalfields.
- Strengthened the regulatory framework governing coal mining in Sindh.
- Generated provincial revenue through royalty and development cess collection.
- Facilitated domestic and foreign investment in coal mining and energy projects.
- Promoted the utilization of indigenous coal resources, reducing dependence on imported fuels and enhancing national energy security.
FUTURE PLANS
- Expand coal mining operations within the Thar Coalfield and support the development of additional blocks.
- Promote investment in the Lakhra, Sonda-Jherruck, and Khanot coalfields.
- Encourage coal-based industrial development, including power generation, coal gasification, fertilizer production, and other value-added industries.
- Support the conversion of imported coal-based power plants to indigenous Thar coal.
- Enhance geological surveys, resource assessment, and digital mapping of coal-bearing areas.
- Strengthen environmental stewardship, mine safety, and regulatory compliance.
- Promote socio-economic development and employment opportunities in coal-producing regions.
The Directorate of Coal Mines Development remains committed to the responsible development of Sindh’s vast coal resources, transforming indigenous energy potential into sustainable economic growth, industrial progress, and national energy security.
