Ministry of Coal Reports Sustained Improvement in Coal Rake Loading to Power Sector
The Ministry of Coal has reported a consistent upward trend in coal loading to the power sector over a four-day period from September 3 to September 6, 2026. The total rake loading increased from 370 rakes per day on September 3 to 444 rakes per day on September 6, representing a net addition of 74 rakes per day and a cumulative improvement of approximately 20%. The most significant single-day jump occurred on September 6, with an increase of 31 rakes over the previous day.
The day-wise progression was detailed as follows: 370 rakes on September 3, 387 rakes on September 4 (a gain of 17), 413 rakes on September 5 (a gain of 26), and 444 rakes on September 6.
Company-Wise Performance on September 6, 2026
Nearly all coal-producing entities registered improvements on September 6 compared to the previous day. Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) recorded the sharpest single-day improvement, increasing its loading by 12 rakes to reach 111 rakes per day. Loading from Captive Blocks rose by 6 rakes to 72 rakes per day. Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) improved by 8 rakes to 25 rakes per day. Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) and Private Washery & Goodsheds each increased by 3 rakes, reaching 35 and 42 rakes per day, respectively. Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) and South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) registered smaller gains of 2 and 1 rake, taking their totals to 36 and 46 rakes per day. Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) and Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) maintained their previous day's levels at 23 and 29 rakes per day, respectively. As a result, the total loading from Coal India Limited (CIL) Sidings rose to 305 rakes per day, an improvement of 26 rakes.
The ministry attributed this improving trend to the sustained efforts of Coal India Limited, its subsidiaries, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), and captive mine operators. The release also noted that critical thermal power plants, defined as those with coal stock below 25% of the normative requirement, are being actively monitored. Corrective coal supply measures are already in place to further ease the supply position at these plants. The Ministry of Coal and Coal India Limited reiterated their commitment to sustaining this improving trend to meet the power sector's requirements.