In a swift move following his appointment, the newly appointed chairman of Coal India Limited (CIL), B Sairam, personally visited the affected residential zones of Kenduadih in Dhanbad. The area has been grappling with dangerous toxic gas emissions from adjacent coal mines. The on-ground inspection occurred just three days after Sairam assumed his leadership role at the maharatna PSU.
On-Site Assessment and Public Assurance
Traveling by road from Ranchi, Chairman Sairam conducted a thorough review of the ongoing situation. He engaged directly with distressed residents and oversaw the relief and safety operations currently in progress. His assessment covered multiple critical fronts, including the prevailing security arrangements, the rehabilitation process for displaced families, and the technical measures deployed to contain the hazardous leak.
During his interactions with officials from Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and the district administration, Sairam emphasized a people-first approach. "The safety of people is our foremost priority," he stated while speaking to locals. He assured them that every possible step was being taken to prevent any loss of life or property, highlighting that CIL is operating under continuous guidance from both the state and central governments.
Addressing a Century-Old Challenge
The new CIL chief explained the inherent complexity of neutralizing the threat. He pointed out that the crisis is particularly challenging due to the presence of extensive underground mines and a working system that is over a century old. "These are areas where direct access is not possible, making the task technically demanding," Sairam noted.
To combat the issue, authorities are employing internationally accepted techniques. Nitrogen flushing is one of the primary methods being used to control and mitigate the impact of the toxic gases. Sairam expressed confidence in the strategy, indicating that once effective outcomes are demonstrated in Kenduadih, the same aggressive approach would be replicated in other affected zones.
A Call for Community Vigilance
Chairman Sairam also urged the local community to remain alert and proactive. He requested residents to immediately inform the BCCL management or the district administration if they encounter any difficulty or observe any unusual situation. "Timely information from the public can help us respond faster and avoid potential risks," he emphasized, underscoring the importance of a coordinated response between the corporation and the community.
This early visit by the top executive underscores the seriousness with which Coal India Limited is treating the environmental and public health emergency in Dhanbad. The close coordination with district officials signals a concerted effort to manage the crisis effectively and provide timely relief to the impacted families in Kenduadih.
