Nagpur: Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) Dr. Hemant Sharad Pande continued his one-day visit to the Chandrapur Area with an inspection of Durgapur Opencast Mine (OCM), following his visit to Bhatadi OCM. During the visit, he inaugurated the new 800 tonnes per hour (TPH) Black Diamond Crusher, a key initiative aimed at ensuring a continuous and uninterrupted supply of crushed coal to Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station (CSTPS).
The inauguration was attended by the Director (Fuel) and the Chief Engineer of CSTPS. The new crusher is expected to support coal supply operations by facilitating the crushing of coal for the power station.
WCL CMD Inaugurates 800 TPH Crusher at Durgapur OCM
The inauguration of the 800 TPH Black Diamond Crusher marks an important step towards strengthening coal handling and supply operations at Durgapur OCM. With its capacity to process 800 tonnes of coal per hour, the crusher is aimed at supporting the consistent availability of crushed coal for CSTPS.
The initiative highlights the importance of efficient coal processing and dispatch infrastructure in meeting the fuel requirements of thermal power generation. A reliable supply of crushed coal is essential for supporting the operational requirements of the power station.
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Dr. Pande Reviews Overburden Removal and Coal Dispatch Operations
During his visit, Dr. Hemant Sharad Pande reviewed the progress of Overburden Removal (OBR) activities and coal dispatch operations at Durgapur OCM. He also interacted with contractor KVRR to assess operational performance and discuss measures to improve productivity.
The review focused on operational efficiency, production-related activities and the need to strengthen performance across mining operations. The interaction provided an opportunity to discuss ways to enhance productivity while maintaining the required operational standards.
WCL CMD Emphasises Mine Safety and Safe Operating Practices
Emphasising the importance of workplace safety, Dr. Pande stated that safety must remain the top priority in every mining operation. He stressed the need for strict adherence to established safety protocols, the adoption of safe operating practices and constant vigilance across mining activities.
He underlined that the well-being of the workforce must be protected alongside the achievement of production targets. His emphasis on safety reflects the importance of maintaining a secure working environment while ensuring efficient and reliable coal production.
Durgapur OCM Visit Focuses on Productivity and Reliable Coal Supply
Dr. Pande’s visit to Durgapur OCM formed part of his one-day tour of the Chandrapur Area, during which he also visited Bhatadi OCM. The inauguration of the new crusher, review of OBR and coal dispatch activities, and interaction with contractor KVRR were key components of the visit.
The installation of the 800 TPH Black Diamond Crusher is aimed at improving coal handling capabilities and supporting the uninterrupted supply of crushed coal to CSTPS. Alongside infrastructure development, the review highlighted WCL’s focus on operational performance, productivity and safety in mining operations.
About Western Coalfields Limited (WCL)
Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, a Maharatna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. WCL operates coal mines primarily in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh and plays an important role in meeting the coal requirements of power plants and other industries. The company focuses on coal production, operational efficiency, safety and reliable fuel supply to support India’s energy needs.
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