On the second day of his field visit to SECL’s Sohagpur Area, Shri Ramesh Chandra Mohapatra, Director (Technical), Projects & Planning, SECL, conducted an extensive inspection of mines and ongoing projects on 11 March 2026. The visit focused on reviewing production activities, safety practices, infrastructure development, mine closure initiatives, and repurposing of abandoned mines.
He was accompanied by Area General Manager Shri B.K. Jena, GM (Operations) Shri Manish Kumar Srivastava, and other departmental heads.
Inspection of Rampur Batura FMC
Shri Mohapatra visited the Rampur Batura FMC project, where foundation excavation work for the TRS and Batch Mix Plant is currently in progress. The Area GM briefed him on the status and progress of the project. The contractor’s representative informed that the construction of the TRS and bunker is expected to reach plinth level by the end of March.
Review of Mining Operations at Sharda OCM
At Sharda Open Cast Mine, the Director reviewed safety management, production status, machinery operations, and overall workplace arrangements. He emphasized maintaining safe and efficient mining operations while ensuring production aligns with the set targets.
Inspection of Rungta UG Abandoned Mines
During the visit to the Rungta Underground abandoned mines, Shri Mohapatra inspected the mine opening area, plantation status, and land freed from mining infrastructure. Discussions were held regarding future land-use possibilities, along with a brief presentation on ongoing mine closure activities.
Visit to Vivek Nagar Solar Power Project & Eco Park
The Director also reviewed progress at the under-construction solar power plant and eco-park at Vivek Nagar UG Mines. Discussions were held on power evacuation arrangements and the potential expansion of the solar project.
Operational Review at Amlai OCM
At Amlai OCM, he assessed the production performance, safety measures, and operational systems in place. Officials highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain safe and systematic mining practices.
Review of Mine Closure Works at Baiga OC Abandoned Mines
At the Baiga OC abandoned mine (Patch-1), the Director inspected the fly ash filling work and topsoil placement, along with potential land use after reclamation. He emphasized involving Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and NGOs to generate alternative livelihood opportunities for the local community.
For Patch-2, he suggested exploring cage fish farming and aquaculture activities as part of the post-mining land utilization strategy. Officials also briefed him on the progress of mine closure works.
Inspection of Coal Dispatch at Burhar Siding
At Burhar Siding, Shri Mohapatra reviewed coal dispatch arrangements, loading operations, and logistics management, stressing the need to further streamline dispatch processes.
Interaction with Workers at Khairaha UG Mine
During his visit to Khairaha Underground Mine, the Director interacted with workers and appreciated their efforts in maintaining high standards of performance. He congratulated employees for their dedication and motivated them to continue contributing to safe and productive mining operations.
Courtesy Meeting with Shahdol District Collector
Shri Mahapatra also paid a courtesy visit to the District Collector of Shahdol, where discussions were held on mining operations in the region, repurposing of closed mines, environmental protection, and regional development initiatives.
Discussions on Repurposing of Closed Mines
In addition, deliberations were held on repurposing other closed mines in the Sohagpur Area, focusing on environmental restoration and identifying productive and sustainable land-use opportunities.
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