SECL to Implement Paste Fill Technology in Mining Operations
South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is poised to make history as the first coal public sector undertaking (PSU) in India to implement paste fill technology in coal mining. This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at promoting sustainable mining practices, comes with a substantial investment of ₹7040 crore through a partnership with TMC Mineral Resources Private Limited. The project will focus on large-scale coal production at the Singhali underground coal mine in Korba, with an expected output of approximately 8.4 million tonnes over the next 25 years.
Understanding Paste Fill Technology
Paste fill technology represents a significant advancement in underground mining methods. This innovative approach eliminates the need for acquiring surface land, which is often a major concern in mining operations. After coal is extracted, the voids left behind are filled with a specially formulated paste made from a mixture of fly ash, crushed overburden from opencast mines, cement, water, and binding chemicals. This process not only prevents land subsidence but also ensures the structural integrity of the mine. Importantly, the use of industrial waste materials in the paste contributes to environmental sustainability and promotes recycling efforts, making this method a responsible choice for modern mining practices.
The Singhali Mine: A Historical Overview
The Singhali underground mine, which began operations in 1993, was initially approved in 1989 with a production capacity of 0.24 million tonnes per year. Currently, it holds 8.45 million tonnes of extractable reserves of G-7 grade non-coking coal. The mine was developed using the Bord and Pillar method, employing advanced equipment such as Load Haul Dumpers (LHDs) and Universal Drilling Machines (UDMs) for its operations. However, the area above the mine is densely populated with villages, high-tension electricity lines, and a Public Works Department (PWD) road, making traditional caving methods impractical due to safety and environmental concerns.
New Opportunities for Mining Operations
The introduction of paste fill technology at the Singhali mine opens up new possibilities for mining activities in this region. This method allows operations to continue without disturbing the existing surface infrastructure, which has been a significant barrier to traditional mining techniques. The successful implementation of this technology is expected to set a precedent for resuming operations in other underground mines facing similar land constraints, thereby enhancing coal production while minimizing environmental impact.
A Commitment to Green Mining
With an investment of ₹7040 crore, this project marks a pivotal step toward advancing green mining technologies in India. The initiative aims to boost coal production while significantly reducing the environmental footprint associated with traditional mining practices. SECL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Shri Harish Duhan, expressed confidence in the potential of paste fill technology, stating that it represents an innovative and eco-friendly solution for the future of underground mining. This project is anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping the coal industry in the years to come, aligning with broader goals of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
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