Truck operators at the Amrapali Coal Project in Tandwa, Chatra district, have raised serious allegations of daily illegal extortion and coal smuggling, claiming that a fake vehicle owners union is collecting Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 per truck each day. Despite repeated complaints to police and Coal India (CCL) officials, truckers say no decisive action has been taken, resulting in revenue losses and growing unrest.
According to local truck owners, the illegal racket generates Rs. 2 to Rs. 3 lakh daily. Complaints were reportedly submitted on 11th June 2025 to the Tandwa Police Station, Sub-Divisional Police Office (SDPO) Tandwa, Chatra SP, and Amrapali project authorities, but no visible action has followed. Truck operators say that vehicles refusing to pay the demanded amount are denied ‘loader slips’, essential documents for loading coal, effectively halting their operations.
Loader Slips Used as Extortion Tool
Truckers allege that control over loader slips, previously issued directly by CCL, has unofficially been handed to the fake union. A group of 10 to 15 individuals allegedly manages collections and withholds slips from those who resist paying. Truck owners suspect collusion between the union, certain police personnel, and project officials.
The Amrapali project has faced corruption allegations since its early days. Earlier crackdowns by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) temporarily halted illegal activities, but extortion and coal trafficking have reportedly resumed in a more organized manner.
Smuggling Racket Spreads Beyond Jharkhand
Truck owners also claim that coal is being smuggled out of Jharkhand to Bihar and other states using fake invoices and escort vehicles, including motorcycles and cars. The shipments reportedly move through multiple police jurisdictions—Tandwa, Simaria, Sadar, Vishisht Nagar, and Hunterganj—without interruption, suggesting possible collusion with enforcement agencies.
While occasional raids have been conducted, including seizures on 23rd May near the Bihar border, 13th June on Nima Road, and 25th June by forest officials on Chatra-Bagra road, truckers say these measures have not dismantled the larger network.
Political Support Sought
Truckers have approached Simaria MLA Ujjwal Das, who assured them of intervention if the administration fails to act. He emphasized that such extortion cannot continue and promised to take necessary steps to address the grievance.
The situation highlights persistent challenges in curbing illegal coal trade and protecting the rights of local transporters, raising urgent questions about enforcement and accountability at Amrapali Coal Project.
