Atmanirbhar Bharat: India’s Growing Coal Mining Capacity

Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India has marked a significant achievement in the global coal mining sector. The Gevra and Kusmunda coal mines, operated by South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India, have secured prominent positions among the world’s largest coal mines. These mines, located in Chhattisgarh’s Korba district, have been recognized as the 2nd and 4th largest coal mines globally by WorldAtlas.com, producing over 100 million tons of coal annually and contributing about 10% to India’s total coal production.

Gevra Coal Mine

Location & Capacity

Situated in Chhattisgarh, the Gevra mine has been operational since 1981 with an annual production capacity of 70 million tons.

Production

In FY 23-24, it produced 59 million tons of coal.

Future Prospects

With extensive coal reserves, the Gevra mine is expected to meet the country’s energy needs for the next decade.

Kusmunda Coal Mine

Production Achievements

The Kusmunda mine produced over 50 million tons of coal in FY 23-24, becoming the second mine in India to achieve such production levels after Gevra.

Advanced Mining Technology

Eco-Friendly Operations

Both mines utilize advanced mining machines, including the “Surface Miner,” which enables coal extraction without blasting, contributing to more environmentally friendly operations.

Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM)

For overburden removal, they employ large-scale HEMMs like 240-ton dumpers, 42 cubic meter shovels, and Vertical Rippers, ensuring efficient and blast-free operations.

Acknowledgements

SECL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. Prem Sagar Mishra, expressed pride in Chhattisgarh’s achievement and extended gratitude to the Coal Ministry, MoEFCC, State Government, Coal India, Railways, various stakeholders, and especially the coal workers for their dedication in reaching this milestone.