New Silo and Rapid Loading System at SECL’s Dipka Megaproject
Coal India’s subsidiary, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), is making significant strides in improving coal evacuation processes. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal, SECL is focusing on First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects. These initiatives aim to enhance safe and sustainable coal transportation from its mines. This article explores the recent developments in SECL’s coal evacuation strategies, particularly the commissioning of new facilities at the Dipka Megaproject.
First Mile Connectivity: A Game Changer for Coal Transportation
First Mile Connectivity (FMC) is a crucial aspect of coal transportation. It refers to the infrastructure that facilitates the efficient movement of coal from mines to loading points. SECL has prioritized the development of FMC infrastructure under the PM Gatishakti Plan. The company has undertaken 17 FMC projects with a combined capacity of 233 million tons per annum (MTPA).
Out of these, nine projects with a total capacity of 151 MTPA have already been commissioned. This demonstrates SECL’s commitment to modernizing coal transportation. The remaining eight projects, with a capacity of 82 MTPA, are in various stages of development. They are expected to be commissioned within the next two to three years. The implementation of FMC is recognized for its efficiency and eco-friendliness. It minimizes the environmental impact of coal transportation while enhancing operational efficiency.
Dipka Megaproject: A Milestone in Coal Evacuation
The Dipka Megaproject has reached a significant milestone with the successful operation of its newly built Rapid Loading System and Silos 3 and 4. On February 21, 2025, the first coal rake was loaded, marking a major advancement in eco-friendly coal transportation. The newly commissioned Dipka CHP-Silo FMC project boasts an impressive annual coal evacuation capacity of 25 million tons. This is a substantial improvement over the previous Merry-Go-Round (MGR) dispatch system, which had a capacity of 15 MTPA.
With the commissioning of Silos 3 and 4, Dipka’s total coal dispatch capacity has surged to 40 million tons per annum. This increase effectively aligns the transportation infrastructure with production levels. The new facilities not only enhance the efficiency of coal loading but also contribute to a more sustainable approach to coal transportation.
Benefits of the New FMC Infrastructure
The commissioning of the new silos at Dipka brings multiple benefits to SECL, Indian Railways, and coal consumers. One of the primary advantages is improved efficiency in loading operations. The new system minimizes both underloading and overloading of coal in rakes. This accuracy leads to better resource management and reduces waste.
Additionally, the new infrastructure allows for faster loading times. This results in shorter turnaround times for coal rakes, improving their availability for subsequent loads. Enhanced coal quality is another significant benefit. The new system minimizes contamination and losses during transportation, ensuring that consumers receive high-quality coal.
Moreover, the new FMC infrastructure reduces dependence on road transport. This shift leads to savings on diesel expenses and contributes to a cleaner environment. By streamlining logistics and optimizing coal movement, SECL is taking significant steps toward reducing the environmental impact of coal transportation.
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