The reviewed plans will then be submitted to the NDRC for final approval.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced on December 23 that the Regulations on Comprehensive Planning Management for Coal Mining Areas were approved during the 19th committee meeting on December 2, 2024. The regulations will come into effect on February 1, 2025.Under the new regulations, coal mining areas with a total planned annual output exceeding 10 million tons must submit their comprehensive plans for review by the provincial coal mining area planning management authority, in cooperation with provincial coal industry departments. The reviewed plans will then be submitted to the NDRC for final approval.
The preparation of the comprehensive plans must be based on general geological surveys, and where necessary, detailed geological investigations. For coal-bearing areas, at least 60% of the total area within the mining zone must undergo detailed surveys or higher-level assessments. If multiple geological reports exist for a particular mining area, the provincial planning authority will commission a geological survey agency to compile a consolidated summary report. This report must be objective, comprehensive, and reliable, adhering to relevant standards and regulations, and undergo expert evaluation.
The regulations also establish a framework for the dynamic management of coal mining area plans, allowing revisions or partial adjustments to be made in response to changes in the coal industry's development needs or evolving planning conditions. Major adjustments to an approved plan, including significant changes to the mining area's scope or resources, or alterations in environmental or water resource conditions, will trigger the need for a revision. In such cases, the provincial authority must revise the plan, conduct updated environmental impact assessments and water resource evaluations, and resubmit the revised plan for reapproval in accordance with national procedures.
These new regulations mark an important step in regulating and managing the development of coal mining areas, ensuring that environmental and resource considerations are incorporated into the planning process.