New Delhi: Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) has initiated precautionary safety measures at Khandra Colliery under its Bankola Area after surface cracks and subsidence were observed near Nilkanth Temple.
The company said the measures are focused on safeguarding its employees and the surrounding area. The cracks and subsidence were observed on July 28, 2026, in an area where several unauthorised structures and illegal occupants are present.
ECL Begins Surface Sealing at Khandra Colliery
According to ECL, the presence of unauthorised structures in the affected area has restricted effective surface filling. This could potentially allow air ingress into underground workings and aggravate spontaneous heating conditions in the zone.
As a preventive measure, ECL has started sealing the mine from the surface to prevent any deterioration of underground conditions.
The sealing operation is being carried out:
- In consultation with N. Sahay, former Chief Scientist at CSIR-CIMFR.
- Under the technical guidance of the former scientist and ECL’s General Manager (Safety & Rescue).
- Under the supervision of ECL’s Mines Rescue Team.
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Underground Conditions Being Continuously Monitored
ECL said the situation is being continuously monitored and safety measures are being implemented based on technical assessments, expert advice and established mine-safety practices.
The company said the duration of the precautionary sealing will depend on the environmental and underground conditions observed through technical monitoring and expert evaluation.
Therefore, the mine may not necessarily remain sealed for three months. ECL clarified that the sealing period could be shorter depending on prevailing conditions.
ECL Rejects Reports of Explosion or Air Blast
ECL has also clarified reports regarding an alleged explosion or air blast in the underground workings.
The company said there is currently no circumstantial evidence or mine-air analysis report establishing the occurrence of an explosion or air blast in the underground workings.
ECL also clarified that reports describing the mine as “critically hazardous” and claiming that it would remain sealed for three months are not factually established at this stage.
The company said any decision regarding reopening will be taken only after assessing the underground and environmental conditions through technical monitoring and expert evaluation.
Manpower to Be Deployed at Other Mines
ECL is also assessing the operational and manpower requirements arising from the precautionary safety measures at Khandra Colliery.
For the time being, existing manpower will be suitably deployed based on operational requirements.
Employees may be assigned to:
- Another unit of the same mine, or
- Neighbouring ECL mines.
The company said the arrangement will help manage operational requirements while precautionary measures remain in place.
Water and Electricity Supply to Residential Quarters Unaffected
ECL has confirmed that the precautionary measures at Khandra Colliery will not disrupt existing water and electricity supplies to residential quarters.The company reiterated that the safety measures are preventive and proactive in nature and are intended to address potential risks before underground conditions deteriorate.
ECL Reaffirms Focus on Mine Safety
ECL said it remains committed to protecting employees and people in the surrounding areas through continuous monitoring and technical evaluation.
The company is relying on expert guidance, technical assessments and mine-safety protocols while determining further action at Khandra Colliery.
About Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL)
Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited engaged in coal mining operations in West Bengal and Jharkhand. The company operates several mines and plays an important role in meeting the coal requirements of industries and the power sector. ECL also undertakes mine-safety, environmental management and rehabilitation measures across its operational areas.
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