India, the world's third-largest emitter of carbon dioxide, is burning more coal as energy supply disruptions linked to the Iran war and a nationwide heatwave have intensified demand for the fuel.
Over 70% of the country's electricity is generated from coal, and recent conditions have pushed the nation to increase its consumption of the resource.
The situation has been exacerbated by the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil export corridor, which has contributed to rising fuel costs and tighter global energy markets.
This has forced India to rely more heavily on domestic coal to meet its energy needs, despite ongoing efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources.
The increased coal use highlights the fragility of India's energy infrastructure in the face of geopolitical tensions and climate pressures.
The country's energy strategy is now under greater scrutiny as it balances the need for reliable power with its climate commitments.