Bilaspur, India |A 15-member media delegation from Sikkim visited the Gevra Coal Mine in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday, gaining firsthand exposure to modern, environmentally responsible coal mining practices at Asia’s largest coal-producing site.
The visit was organized jointly by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Sikkim and Chhattisgarh, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The initiative aimed to familiarize journalists with the role of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) in strengthening India’s energy security while adopting sustainable and eco-friendly mining methods.
During the tour, the delegation observed large-scale operations involving advanced Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) and was briefed on blast-free coal extraction through surface miners. SECL officials explained that this method significantly enhances safety, minimizes environmental impact, and improves operational efficiency.
The journalists also witnessed SECL’s First Mile Connectivity (FMC) coal dispatch system, an automated and environment-friendly process designed to reduce dust emissions, improve transparency, and streamline coal transportation. The system has been a key component of SECL’s efforts to modernize coal logistics.
A major highlight of the visit was the dense green cover developed at the Gevra mine using the Miyawaki plantation technique. The delegation praised the initiative, noting its contribution to ecological restoration and SECL’s broader commitment to “green mining.”
Several members of the delegation described the experience as eye-opening, stating that it was their first opportunity to observe coal mining operations up close. They commended SECL for maintaining a balance between meeting the country’s growing energy needs and prioritizing environmental protection and community welfare.
Following the mine visit, the delegation interacted with SECL’s senior management at the company’s headquarters in Bilaspur. The discussion involved Director (Technical–Operations) N. Franklin Jayakumar, Director (HR) Biranchi Das, and Director (Technical–Planning/Projects) Ramesh Chandra Mahapatra.
The session focused on SECL’s future roadmap, sustainable development initiatives, and corporate social responsibility programs, offering the visiting journalists deeper insight into the company’s long-term vision.
SECL officials said such media interactions play an important role in promoting transparency and enhancing public understanding of modern coal mining practices in India.