New Delhi: South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a key arm of Coal India Limited (CIL), is currently experiencing delays in 12 of its ongoing coal mining projects. These setbacks are primarily due to delays in obtaining environmental clearances and issues related to land possession. The delay comes at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to increase domestic coal production to reduce reliance on imports.
Details of Delayed Projects
Out of the 30 ongoing projects under SECL, 12 projects are facing schedule slippages while 18 are progressing as planned. The delayed projects vary in scale and investment:
- Three projects have costs exceeding Rs 500 crore.
- Five projects cost between Rs 150 crore and Rs 500 crore.
- Two projects fall in the Rs 100 crore to Rs 150 crore range.
- One project costs between Rs 50 crore and Rs 100 crore.
- Another project falls between Rs 20 crore and Rs 50 crore.
Notable projects experiencing delays include the Amadand Open Cast Mine, Amgaon Open Cast Project, and Vijay West Underground Mine.
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Monitoring and Oversight Mechanisms
Large projects costing Rs 500 crore or more are closely monitored by the Ministry of Coal through monthly project review meetings. Projects valued at Rs 150 crore and above are tracked via an online computerized monitoring system maintained by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). These measures aim to enhance transparency and expedite project implementation.
SECL’s Extensive Project Portfolio
SECL currently has 73 major coal projects approved, with an ultimate capacity target of 302.75 million tonnes per annum and a sanctioned capital investment of Rs 44,571 crore. Out of these, 30 projects are ongoing, 38 projects have been completed successfully, and five underground blocks are operational mines.
Production Performance and Reserves
In the financial year 2024-25, SECL produced 167.487 million tonnes of coal. The company’s coal reserves are predominantly located across the states of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, making it a critical supplier in India’s energy sector.
About South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL)
South Eastern Coalfields Limited is a Mini Ratna public sector enterprise under Coal India Limited, headquartered in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. SECL is one of the largest coal-producing companies in India, focusing on the exploration, extraction, and supply of coal to meet the country’s growing energy demands. The company plays a vital role in supporting India’s energy security and industrial growth through sustainable and efficient mining practices.
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