In alignment with India's dedication to bolstering energy security and advancing sustainable development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to virtually inaugurate three vital first-mile connectivity projects by South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India, in Chhattisgarh. "These projects, valued at over Rs 600 crore, mark a significant step towards faster, eco-friendly and efficient mechanized coal evacuation", the Coal Ministry said.

The ministry highlighted that the OCP Coal Handling Plant in Dipka, operated by SECL, is a significant project built at a cost exceeding Rs 211 crore. "With an annual coal handling capacity of 25 MT, the project features an overground bunker capacity of 20,000 tons and a 2.1 km long conveyor belt, facilitating the rapid loading of 4,500 – 8,500 tons of coal per hour", the ministry said.

The project is anticipated to facilitate environmentally friendly transportation by reducing coal movement via roads between the pit and rail sidings, thereby mitigating carbon emissions. "This will not only benefit the environment but also enhance operational efficiency by significantly reducing rake loading time to less than an hour", the Coal Ministry said.

The ministry highlighted another significant project, the Chhal OCP Coal Handling Plant in SECL's Raigarh Area, constructed at a cost exceeding Rs 173 crores. “With a capacity to handle 6 MT of coal annually, it includes an overground bunker, a conveyor belt spanning 1.7 km, and a Silo with a capacity of 3,000 tons", the ministry said.

Additionally, the ministry announced that the completion of the Baroud OCP Coal Handling Plant in SECL's Raigarh Area, with a capacity to handle 10 MT of coal annually, has incurred a cost of Rs. 216 crores. "Equipped with an overground bunker capacity of 20,000 tons and a 1.7 km conveyor belt, the project features a rapid loading system capable of loading 5000-7500 tons of coal per hour, significantly streamlining the loading process and contributing to operational efficiency", the ministry said.

The projects are in accordance with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, which is aimed at offering multi-modal connectivity and improving coal infrastructure throughout the region. "By generating local employment opportunities and ensuring efficient energy supply, they play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the area", the Coal Ministry said. The ministry further stated that the First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects reduce dependency on coal transportation through roads, thereby decreasing traffic congestion, road accidents, and environmental effects.

Source : IANS