Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Ltd (CIL), has recorded its highest ever coal production at 143.06 MnT during 2017-18. The coal miner’s output is 2.8% up against 139.21 MnT dry fuel mined during 2016-17.
A K Jha, Chairman & Managing Director, said, “MCL has been able to produce more than 143 MnT (coal) despite several operational constraints. It is a result of cooperation we have got from all our stakeholders”.
The company, which celebrates 27th foundation day on April 3, is the second largest coal producing subsidiary of Coal India and contributes to 25% of its total production.
The company, which operates 15 open cast and five underground coal mines in Angul, Jharsuguda and Sundergarh districts of Odisha, has supplied 138.27 MnT dry fuel to consumers, 112 MnT of which was dispatched through eco-friendly mode i.e. railways, Merry Go Around (MGR) belt etc.
The company has registered 12% growth in over burden removal at 138.17 Million cubic metres, which will add to its future growth in coal production, Mr Jha informed.
The CMD said MCL had made INR 1,300 Crore capital expenditure during the last fiscal, which would be a foundation for its future growth plans.
Informing that the 53-kms-long Jharsuguda-Barpalli-Sardega railway line and Sardega Siding would be commissioned shortly, Jha said, “The new rail link will have a capacity to evacuate 30 to 35 MnT coal annually”.
Replying to a query on company’s diversification plans and thermal power venture in Sundergarh district, the CMD said 1600 (2×800) MW Super Critical Thermal Power Plant of Mahanadi Power Basin Ltd (MBPL) was progressing well and modalities of setting-up the plant were being finalised.
MCL is also setting-up 10 MnT annual capacity coal washers two each in Ib Coalfields and Talcher Coalfields, Jha said, asserting that company is committed to reduce the impact of air pollution in its operational zones.
MCL has made 92% of total coal production at 131 MnT through eco-friendly surface miners while dispatch via eco-friendly mode was 81% during the financial year ended March 31, 2018.
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