In a significant recognition of sustainable mining practices, two underground mines of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) have secured the highest 5-star rating in the latest star rating list released by the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, for the financial year 2023–24.
Bangwar UG and Khairaha UG, both under SECL’s Sohagpur area, achieved this top rating by scoring 95 and 91 out of 100 points, respectively. In the opencast category, five SECL mines, including the major projects Dipka and Kusmunda, have been awarded 4-star ratings.
In total, 39 SECL mines—comprising both opencast and underground units—have received a star rating of 3 or above.
The star rating system, introduced by the Ministry of Coal, aims to encourage green, safe, and sustainable mining practices through the use of modern technology. Ratings are awarded based on compliance with various mining regulations, focusing on safety, environmental impact, rehabilitation of project-affected families, and worker welfare.
Commenting on the achievement, SECL CMD Harish Duhan said, “It is a matter of great pride for our mines to receive the 5-star rating. This reflects the hard work and commitment of our team towards maintaining high-quality standards. We aim to bring more of our mines into the 5-star category by continuing to adopt safe and eco-friendly mining practices.”
About SECL
South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is the largest coal producing company of India. It is a Miniratna Company, and one of eight fully owned subsidiaries of Coal India Limited. The company has its headquarter at Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India and 92 mines spread over Chhattisgarh & Madhya Pradesh; 70 underground, 21 opencast, and 1 mixed.[3] It is a schedule ‘B’ Mini Ratna CPSE in coal & lignite under the administrative control of the Ministry of Coal.
