Union Minister G Kishan Reddy Launches 25 Electric Vehicles for Western Coalfields Limited
Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, flagged off 25 electric vehicles (EVs) that have been added to the fleet of Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) during his two-day visit to Nagpur. This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting green energy and reducing carbon emissions in the coal mining sector.
Virtual Inauguration and Foundation Stone Ceremonies
During the visit, Minister Reddy virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for several crucial projects of WCL. The ceremonies highlighted the government's commitment to infrastructure development and environmental sustainability in mining regions.
Key projects included:
- Foundation stone for the Black Diamond Sports Stadium at Kamptee.
- Foundation stone for the Swami Vivekananda Eco Park at Tadali in the Wani area.
- Foundation stone for the First Mile Connectivity project at Sasti Open Cast Mine in the Ballarpur area.
Review of Coal Production and Future Plans
Following the ceremonies, Minister Reddy conducted a comprehensive review of WCL's performance, focusing on coal production, safety standards, sustainable development efforts, and future strategies. He expressed confidence that WCL would achieve better results in the current financial year and emphasized its pivotal role in the evolving coal industry.
"WCL has a crucial role in the changing coal industry, and I am optimistic about its enhanced performance this year," Reddy stated during the meeting.
WCL Chairman and Managing Director Harish Duhan presented a review for the 2025-26 period, outlining the company's goals and projections. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Coal Ministry Additional Secretary Sanoj Kumar Jha, Coal India Chairman B Sairam, and Coal Controller Sajeesh Kumar N, along with WCL directors and other key personnel.
Focus on Mine Closure and Environmental Conservation
On March 14, Minister Reddy reviewed activities related to the closure of the Murpar underground mine. Coal production at this mine began in 2003, and it was closed in 2022 after the area was designated part of the Eco-Sensitive Zone of the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve.
Reddy stressed the importance of implementing the mine closure process in a scientific and systematic manner to restore environmental balance and conserve natural resources post-mining. "It is essential to ensure that environmental harmony is maintained and resources are protected after mining operations cease," he emphasized.
This approach aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable mining practices and mitigate the ecological impact of coal extraction, ensuring that development does not come at the cost of environmental degradation.
