Hyderabad, May 9 (RAHNUMA): The State government has initiated a comprehensive plan for the development of 9 new coal mining projects for Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), with the objective of ensuring long-term operational sustainability and energy security.
The initiative is intended to offset production losses arising from the phased closure of existing mines due to depletion of reserves, ensure continuity of employment for the workforce, and meet the growing energy demand of the State.
The SCCL has been directed to expedite all preparatory activities and obtain necessary statutory approvals at the earliest.
In line with these directions, the SCCL has prepared detailed proposals for nine projects and submitted them to the Union Ministries of Coal, Forest and Environment for requisite clearances.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister & Energy Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu are closely reviewing the progress of approvals. The Deputy Chief Minister has held meetings with concerned authorities in New Delhi, emphasising the need for timely clearances in view of the State’s energy requirements.
Approvals have already been received for 3 projects and the coal production has commenced at the Naini Block in Odisha following coordination with the Government of Odisha. The VK Coal Mine in Kothagudem has also completed major statutory formalities and is ready for commencement of production.
By 2027–28, four mines in SCCL are expected to cease operations, leading to an estimated reduction of 12.51 million tonnes in annual coal production. The proposed 9 projects are expected to bridge the gap and ensure uninterrupted coal supply for the next two decades.
The projects include development of new open-cast mines, extensions of existing operations, and extraction of residual coal reserves from previously closed underground mines.
The State government has identified nine new projects under its initiative to strengthen SCCL’s future coal production. These projects include development of new open-cast mines, expansion of existing mines, and extraction of remaining coal reserves from previously closed underground mines.
In line with the directions of the State government regarding expeditious development of new mining projects, SCCL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Buddhaprakash Jyoti conducted a detailed review meeting on Saturday with senior officials to assess the progress of the proposed projects.
He directed officials to expedite pending statutory approvals and take necessary steps to ensure commencement of production from at least three projects within the current financial year, as per the State government’s target timeline.
