PM Advisor Reviews BCCL's Operations and Development Plans
Shri Tarun Kapoor, Advisor to the Prime Minister, conducted a comprehensive two-day review of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) operations from 31 August to 1 September 2026, beginning with a high-level meeting at Koyla Bhawan. The review covered BCCL's major operational activities, key projects, technological initiatives, safety measures, and future action plans up to 2030-31.
Operational Performance and Targets
The meeting reviewed BCCL's key operational indicators including coal production and offtake, coal reserves, operational capacity, and performance of underground (UG) and opencast (OC) mines along with overburden removal (OBR) during the past five years. Production potential and detailed plans for the next five years were presented, emphasizing BCCL's strategic role in meeting India's coking coal requirements. Shri Kapoor stressed the need for scientific and optimal utilization of available resources with focus on capacity enhancement and improved operational efficiency to support sustainable growth and profitability.
Technology Deployment and Expansion
Current mining technologies including Longwall Mining and Highwall Mining were reviewed, along with plans to expand advanced technologies such as Surface Miners and Continuous Miners. The restructuring of opencast blocks in the Jharia Coalfield and plans for redevelopment of discontinued mines through MDO/Revenue Sharing model were highlighted. Washery performance, plans for washing capacity expansion, and initiatives for improving coal quality were also discussed.
Site Inspections and Project Reviews
Shri Kapoor inspected the Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Block-I Project, receiving briefings on CBM gas extraction technology, project progress, and implementation plans. He also examined the Moonidih XVI Seam Longwall Project, focusing on mechanized underground mining operations and their role in ensuring steady supply of prime coking coal through safer and more sustainable practices. The ENA Fire Project in Kusunda Area was reviewed for fire management measures, safety arrangements, scientific fire detection, thermal and satellite-based monitoring, excavation, and phased rehabilitation of affected areas.
Stakeholder Engagement and Rehabilitation
Shri Kapoor interacted with BCCL's Area General Managers to understand operational and administrative challenges and their mitigation measures. He also engaged with families from high-risk areas to discuss safety and rehabilitation issues. The visit schedule included review of Belgaria and Karmatand rehabilitation sites and matters relating to the Revised Jharia Master Plan with concerned stakeholders on 1st September 2026.
The high-level delegation included Chairman of Coal India Limited Shri B. Sairam, BCCL CMD Shri Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Joint Secretary from Ministry of Textiles Smt. Alaknanda Dayal, Project Advisor from Ministry of Coal Shri Alok Kumar Singh, and BCCL's directors of HR, Technical/Operations, Finance, and Technical/Projects & Planning, along with senior officials from Railways and area management.