Thar coal deposit is ranked as the __________ largest coal reserve in the world.

The Thar coal deposit, located in the Thar Desert of Sindh, Pakistan, is ranked as the 7th largest coal reserve in the world, making it one of the most significant natural resources in South Asia. Discovered during geological surveys in the 1990s, the Thar coalfield spans an area of over 9,000 square kilometers and contains an estimated 175 billion tons of lignite coal. This immense reserve has the potential to transform Pakistan’s energy landscape by providing a long-term, domestically sourced fuel alternative for electricity generation.

Thar coal’s importance lies not only in its size but also in the strategic advantage it offers to Pakistan. For decades, the country has relied heavily on imported oil and expensive energy sources, which created pressure on the national economy. With Thar’s development, Pakistan gains greater energy independence, reduced reliance on foreign fuels, and more stable long-term power production. Several mining and power projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have already begun converting Thar coal into electricity, bringing life-changing infrastructure and employment opportunities to the region.

The deposit has also sparked discussions around environmental management, sustainable extraction, and community development. With proper technology and responsible mining practices, Thar coal can significantly improve Pakistan’s energy security while driving economic growth in an underdeveloped region.