Bhubaneswar
As part of the inter-state media exposure tour to Chhattisgarh, an Odisha media delegation visited Gevra Mine of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) in Korba district on the third day of the tour, gaining first-hand experience of mining activities and insights into large-scale coal production, technology and safety practices.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Shri Sanjay Mishra, General Manager, SECL, and Shri Dhiraj Choudhary, General Manager (Operations), SECL.
Highlighting the significance of coal in national development, Shri Sanjay Mishra, General Manager, SECL, said, “The role of coal is very important in the development of any country. The energy sector cannot be imagined without coal. From cooking fuel to powering engines and industries, coal continues to play an important role in meeting energy requirements.”
Shri Dhiraj Choudhary briefed the journalists on the mine’s operations, coal production, safety protocols and measures being undertaken to ensure safe and efficient mining. He also apprised the delegation of the technological interventions and operational practices adopted at Gevra to enhance productivity while maintaining high standards of safety.
During the visit, journalists entered the mining area and witnessed mining activities first-hand. They observed high-capacity mining machinery and gained an understanding of various stages of coal extraction, overburden removal, handling and transportation.
The delegation was informed that Gevra is the world’s second-largest opencast coal mine, producing 59.1 million tonnes of coal in 2023-24. The mine supplies coal to seven States and contributes around six per cent of India’s coal production.
The journalists were also briefed on Surface Miners, ripper technology and shovel-dumper combinations, besides digital interventions under Project DigiCoal for improved monitoring and operational efficiency.
Briefing the delegation on SECL’s future production plans, Shri Dheeraj Choudhary said that SECL is poised to become the world’s largest coal-producing company next year.
The delegation also learnt about First Mile Connectivity, including conveyor systems and Rapid Loading Silos for efficient coal evacuation. The visit further highlighted SECL’s environmental initiatives, including afforestation, Miyawaki plantation, dust suppression, mine-water management and land reclamation.
The visit was facilitated by Manamohan Padhy, Assistant Director, CBC, Sambalpur, and Bikash Ranjan Dalai, Information Assistant, PIB, Bhubaneswar, who accompanied the delegation throughout the visit.
