block), ECL
The growth of the Indian mining industry is being driven by infrastructure expansion, advanced manufacturing technologies and the rise of electric vehicles. Mechanisation of mining operations continues to be a key trend, as companies such as Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) turn to digital technologies and automation. At a recent Indian Infrastructure conference, Kalyanjee Prasad, general manager, mining (new block), ECL, talked about the new technologies being deployed, experiences and challenges, and the company’s future focus areas…
ECL employs various technologies for underground mining, aiming to extract coal efficiently and safely. Notably, the company utilises side discharge loaders with a strength of 170 ECL in the context of cyclic mining. This equipment, especially effective in bord and pillar mining, plays a crucial role in mining operations. Additionally, ECL makes use of 24 load haul dumpers, continuous miners and drilling machines for efficient underground extraction.
ECL’s Jhanjra underground mine stands out with its innovative mining strategy. Its utilisation of the precision surface miner longwall technology facilitates the optimisation of coal extraction. Highwall mining is another noteworthy technique implemented by ECL. It involves both opencast mining and cyclic mining, utilising shovel-dumper combinations. This approach offers operational flexibility, with two options available – rope shovel and hydraulic shovel. These combinations play a crucial role in coal extraction by enabling efficient handling and transportation.
ECL also operates the Dragline DURGA, a cost-effective technology that requires minimal ancillary equipment and manpower.
ECL’s strategic initiatives
ECL has placed a strong focus on rehabilitation and resettlement, instilling community confidence. Currently, a streamlined process ensures prompt compensation and employment for eligible individuals, showcasing the firm’s commitment to effective and responsible mining practices.
It has also introduced the mine developer and operator model, and the revenue sharing concept. Further, it has replaced 20 non-performing contracts with fresh tenders, enhancing the overall efficiency. Moreover, specialised cells have been established to facilitate document acquisition from state authorities.
Other innovative initiatives include the Raniganj North CBM block joint venture with Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (74 per cent share) and Coal India Limited (CIL) (26 per cent share) for exploration of coal bed methane (CBM). A memorandum of understanding has also been signed between CIL and GAIL for a surface coal gasification project called Shilpanchal Pariyojana in West Bengal, to explore the production of synthetic natural gas.
ECL’s proposal for a pilot project on underground coal gasification to establish the technology in Indian geo-mining conditions has been approved. Furthermore, in accordance with its net zero targets, land has been identified for the installation of 385 MW of solar capacity. Lastly, hydraulic stowing is under way at Lakhimata colliery, a plastic waste management unit has been set up in Bankola Area and a processed overburden plant has been established for the Naba Jambad Project in Kajora Area.
Global practices
Several cutting-edge technologies are revolutionising mining operations. For instance, the digital mine collision awareness system employs very low-frequency magnetic technology to detect and manage potential collisions, enhancing safety culture and ensuring compliance at mine sites. Autonomous drilling has emerged as a game-changer. Artificial intelligence in preventive maintenance also stands out for improving machine health by detecting wear and tear on vital equipment parts. Additionally, hydrogen-powered dumpers are increasingly replacing diesel trucks, resulting in better performance and lower maintenance costs.
Key challenges
Over time, various challenges have emerged such as land acquisition and dispossession issues, time and cost escalations, centre-state dynamics, and high logistics costs. With the share of lower grade mines increasing, the production of low-quality coal is another challenge.
Future outlook
ECL envisions a dynamic future marked by strategic initiatives. This involves the expansion of existing mines, development of a new rail network and deployment of mass production technologies. Going forward, the company plans to adopt integrated in-pit crushing and conveyance technology, pipe conveyors, high angle conveyors, autonomous trucks, vibro-rippers, and drones. It also plans to amend its rehabilitation and resettlement policies, while focusing on diversification and sustainable development.