New Delhi: Chittaranjan Kumar, Director (Technical/Operations) of Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), inspected the Khottadih Opencast Mine and Dalurband Opencast Mine in the Pandaveswar Area on September 29, 2026.
The visit focused on reviewing mining operations, coal production, overburden removal, coal dispatch arrangements and safety measures. Kumar also assessed measures aimed at improving productivity and operational efficiency at the mines.
Chittaranjan Kumar Inspects Mining Operations
During the field visit, Chittaranjan Kumar reviewed the ongoing mining activities at both Khottadih and Dalurband Opencast Mines.
The inspection covered key operational areas, including:
- Coal production
- Overburden removal
- Mining operations
- Heavy earth-moving equipment utilisation
- Coal dispatch arrangements
- Safety measures
- Productivity enhancement initiatives
The review was aimed at identifying operational challenges and improving the efficiency of mining and coal dispatch activities.
Read also: ECL Signs Escrow Agreements for 57 Mine Closure Plans Under Revised Coal Ministry Guidelines
Review Meeting Held With Pandaveswar Area Officials
Kumar was accompanied by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Area General Manager, Pandaveswar Area, along with a team of officers from the area.
Following the mine inspections, Kumar chaired a review meeting with Agents, Colliery Managers, Colliery Engineers and other officials.
The meeting assessed the progress of mining activities and examined measures required to improve production and operational performance.
Focus on Production Targets and Coal Dispatch
During the review, Chittaranjan Kumar issued necessary instructions to the officials regarding production and operational efficiency.
The key areas of focus included:
- Achieving coal production targets
- Improving productivity and operational efficiency
- Ensuring effective overburden removal
- Strengthening coal dispatch arrangements
- Optimising the use of mining equipment
- Addressing operational bottlenecks
Officials were advised to make focused efforts to meet the targeted production levels and improve the overall performance of the mining operations.
Safety Standards Given Priority
Safety remained a key focus during the inspection and review meeting. Kumar emphasised the need for strict adherence to prescribed safety standards at the mining sites.
Officials were directed to ensure that operational efficiency and production targets are pursued without compromising workplace safety.
The field review provided an opportunity to assess both production-related activities and safety practices at the Khottadih and Dalurband mines.
About Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL)
Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited engaged in coal mining operations. The company operates mines primarily in West Bengal and Jharkhand and contributes to meeting the coal requirements of the power, industrial and other sectors.
