Western Coalfields Limited (WCL), Nagpur, has registered significant achievements in coal production, despatch, and overburden removal during the financial year 2025–26. During this period, WCL produced 63.03 million tonnes of coal, achieved 60 million tonnes of coal despatch, and carried out 354.33 million cubic metres of overburden removal (OBR).

These achievements are the result of several positive initiatives undertaken by the company throughout the year. During FY 2025–26, WCL obtained incremental environmental clearance for 5.375 million tonnes. In addition, the company secured Stage-II forest clearance for 207.76 hectares of forest land across seven projects—the highest number of forest clearances obtained in a single financial year since the company’s inception.

To enhance efficiency and safety in coal mining operations, WCL has increasingly adopted modern technologies such as Continuous Miner and Surface Miner systems. Currently, six Surface Miners and three Continuous Miners are operational in WCL mines. The company plans to introduce two additional Surface Miners shortly, along with 23 Continuous Miners in a phased manner over the coming years.

Among the company’s operational areas, Wani Area recorded the highest contribution to coal production with 13.31 million tonnes, followed by Nagpur Area with 11.65 million tonnes and Umrer Area with 10.57 million tonnes, all making significant contributions to the overall output.
During FY 2025–26, WCL also made encouraging progress in the exploration of critical minerals and rare earth elements. Elemental analysis of 500 samples collected from six opencast mines revealed the presence of elements such as rhenium, potash, titanium, and tellurium. For further analysis, samples from Adasa UG to OC and Makardhokra–III Opencast Mine have been sent to the Non-Ferrous Technology Development Centre. In the second phase, the tendering process is underway for elemental analysis in six additional opencast mines.

During the year, the company also progressed on key initiatives such as coal gasification projects, first-mile connectivity projects, and efforts towards becoming a net-zero company in the coming years. Through its CSR initiatives, WCL undertook extensive work in the fields of education, healthcare, skill development, sanitation, and community development, benefiting communities in and around its operational areas.

Encouraged by these achievements, Team WCL is confident and motivated to meet its targets for the coming financial year.
 

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Saurabh Khekde/Parshuram Kor

 

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