Health & Safety principles have been imbibed across all facets of maintenance and operations – from blasting being carried out as when required, drilling, removal of overburden, extracting coal to transportation. Blast free technology will soon be introduced to excavate coal – an easy and safe operating technology which will also have a minimal impact on the environment. In addition, regular health check-ups are being conducted. All employees and contract workers are being trained to assess, identify and prevent hazards. Also, an advanced ambulance will be procured soon. It is mandatory that every moving vehicle within the premises keep the exterior lights on.

The first coal dispatch was sent to Bhatapara integrated plant – about 220 kms away – in November 2018. Meanwhile, the process for Underground mining has already been initiated and open excavation

for drivage of inclines is completed. It is expected to commence in December 2019 – yet again one year ahead of the schedule.

Soon, a Coal Washery or Coal Preparation Plant (CPP) (to wash off the Run-of-Mine Coal, ash and other impurities) will also be set up. Also, the construction work of 33 kV substation is in progress. The team has also initiated a process for revision of approved mining plan that seeks to enhance peak capacity by 50% – from current 1.2 million tonnes to 1.8 million tonnes – to maximise extractable reserve with optimum output.

Meanwhile, the Chhattisgarh East Railway Limited is undertaking construction of a railway line very close to the coal block; the Railway Siding is proposed within 2 km of Gare Palma blocks and this proposed corridor will cater to transportation requirement of coal blocks in the future.