Kolkata: The Sonepur Bazari Open Cast Project (OCP), one of Eastern Coalfields Limited’s (ECL) flagship mines, has significantly strengthened its production readiness through advanced mining technologies, expanded infrastructure and improved operational planning. The mine is now well-positioned to achieve its ambitious coal production target of 120 lakh tonnes during FY 2026–27, reinforcing Coal India Limited’s commitment to ensuring reliable and affordable energy supplies for the country.
The project has strengthened its production readiness through modern mining technologies, improved infrastructure and enhanced operational planning.
Modern Equipment Enhances Mining Efficiency
Sonepur Bazari OCP operates one of the most comprehensive fleets of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) within Eastern Coalfields Limited. The mine is equipped with a high-capacity Marion Dragline, electric rope shovels, hydraulic excavators, large-capacity dumpers and several supporting machines designed to maximise operational efficiency.
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Departmental mining operations are complemented by outsourced mining fleets, allowing greater operational flexibility, optimum utilisation of equipment and sustained production levels.
Advanced Technologies Improve Productivity and Sustainability
The mine has adopted several modern technologies to improve productivity while reducing environmental impact.
Among the key technological interventions are:
- High-capacity Surface Miners enabling blast-free coal extraction.
- Advanced drilling systems for efficient mining operations.
- Controlled blasting techniques to improve safety.
- Dust suppression measures aimed at minimising environmental impact.
According to the company, high-capacity Surface Miners enable blast-free coal extraction while improving productivity, ensuring uniform coal sizing and reducing environmental impact.
Mine Prepared for FY27 Production Target
Coal India Limited said the mine’s strong production performance, exceptional overburden removal, increased coal exposure, improved land availability, modern infrastructure and adoption of advanced technology have collectively strengthened its production readiness.
These enabling factors have positioned Sonepur Bazari OCP to confidently pursue its 120 lakh tonne coal production target during the current financial year.
Supporting India’s Energy Security
The company said Sonepur Bazari reflects the transformation taking place across Coal India Limited’s mining operations through better mine planning, timely project execution, technological modernisation and a skilled workforce.
As one of Eastern Coalfields Limited’s flagship mines, the project continues to set higher productivity benchmarks while contributing to Coal India Limited’s broader objective of ensuring reliable, affordable and sustainable energy security for the nation.
