New Delhi [India], April 19 (ANI): As part of its efforts to become the first coal public sector undertaking in India to adopt paste fill technology for coal mining, SouthEastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) has taken an important stride forward. SECL has entered into a Rs 7,040 crore pact with TMC Mineral Resources Private Limited on Friday.

As stated in a statement from the Ministry of Coal, this pact outlines the implementation of extensive coal extraction utilizing paste fill technology at the Singhali underground coal mine situated in SECL 's Korba area.

The document further stated that within a span of 25 years, the initiative is projected to yield roughly 8.4 million metric tons (84.5 lakh tons) of coal.

The project, with an investment totaling ₹7,040 crores, is a significant effort to advance eco-friendly mining practices within India. Its objective is to boost coal output considerably while substantially decreasing ecological harm.

Speaking on the occasion, SECL Harish Duhan, the Managing Director, stated, "I am convinced that paste fill technology will not just ensure the sustainability of underground mining but also provide an inventive, environmentally friendly answer. This initiative marks a significant move towards sustainable mining practices and will define the direction of the coal sector for many years ahead."

The Singhali underground mine received approval in 1989 for development. production capacity amounting to 0.24 million tonnes annually, began operations in 1993.

Currently, the mine holds 8.45 million tonnes of extractable G-7 grade non-coking coal reserves, according to the statement.

The Ministry of Coal pointed out that the Singhali mine was established utilizing the Bord and Pillar technique, with the use of Load Haul Dumpers (LHDs) and Universal Drilling Machines (UDMs) for underground activities. (ANI)