Coal India Intensifies Efforts to Enhance Domestic Coal Supply Quality
In a significant move to improve the quality of domestic coal supply, Coal India Limited (CIL) is stepping up coal dispatches through a silo-based mechanised loading system. This advanced system is integrated with auto mechanical samplers, a technology-driven process that ensures greater consistency in coal quality by effectively circumventing human interference.
Third-Party Oversight for Impartial Quality Assessment
According to CIL officials, to guarantee an impartial, transparent, and credible determination of coal quality—as stipulated under the provisions of the Fuel Supply Agreement—CIL facilitates sampling and testing through independent third-party sampling agencies (TPSAs). Currently, 11 TPSAs are on board, empanelled by Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFCL), to carry out sampling and analysis at coal loading points of CIL's subsidiary companies.
Substantial Progress in Mechanised Dispatches
Until December of the fiscal year 2026, CIL dispatched approximately 375 million tonnes (MTs) of coal through rail, all of which was sampled by TPSAs. Notably, half of these dispatches were made through silos, where the installed auto mechanical samplers ensured high standards of coal quality process control.
Ambitious Targets for Future Expansion
CIL is now aiming to increase this quantity to around 80% in the current fiscal year. To achieve this steep target, the commissioning of new first-mile connectivity projects and loading through silos is being rigorously followed, underscoring the company's commitment to leveraging technology for superior supply chain management.
