SECL signs $823m agreement for large-scale coal production utilising paste fill technology
South Eastern Coalfields (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India, has made a groundbreaking move by entering into a Rs70.4bn ($823.6m) agreement with TMC Mineral Resources to implement paste fill technology for coal production at the Singhali underground coal mine in Korba, Chhattisgarh. This partnership is set to span over the next 25 years, marking a significant shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly mining practices in India.
This innovative paste fill technology is expected to yield approximately 8.4 million tonnes (mt) of coal from the Singhali underground coal mine. SECL, under the leadership of chairman and managing director Harish Duhan, is pioneering the adoption of this advanced underground mining technique. Duhan expressed his confidence in the technology, stating that it not only secures the future of underground mining but also offers an environmentally friendly solution.
Unlike traditional mining methods that require surface land acquisition, paste filling involves filling voids post-coal extraction with a paste mixture comprising fly ash, crushed overburden from opencast mines, cement, water, and binding agents. This method not only prevents land subsidence but also maintains the structural integrity of the mine. Moreover, by incorporating industrial waste materials, paste fill technology promotes environmental sustainability and waste recycling.
The Singhali mine, operational since 1993, holds significant reserves of G-7 grade non-coking coal. The densely populated surface area above the mine has made traditional caving methods impractical due to safety and environmental concerns. However, paste fill technology enables mining operations to continue without disrupting surface structures, setting a precedent for restarting operations in other underground mines facing similar land constraints.
In a separate development, SECL recently secured environmental clearance for its Gevra mine, located in the Korba area. This signifies the company’s commitment to adopting environmentally friendly practices across its mining operations.
The adoption of paste fill technology at the Singhali mine not only highlights SECL’s dedication to sustainable mining practices but also sets a new standard for the industry. This endeavor towards green mining is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to environmental stewardship.
This article was adapted from the original post titled “SECL signs $823m agreement for large-scale coal production utilising paste fill technology” published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.
