Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy Inspects the World’s Second Largest Gevra Coal Mine

Steps into the Mine, Holds Coal in Hand to Closely Observe Operations

Understands Coal Production and Transportation by Boarding Shovel Machines and Dumpers; Felicitates Employees, Also Reviews Coal Loading Silos

Raipur : Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, today visited the Gevra coal mine in Korba district—India’s largest and the world’s second-largest coal mine. He observed coal excavation and transportation processes at the SECL Gevra mine from a designated viewpoint. He examined the advanced technology being used for coal production and personally entered the mining site, boarding a shovel machine and dumper to understand the loading and transportation mechanisms. At the surface area of the mine, he witnessed coal cutting with a surface miner and even held coal in his hands to assess its quality.

Minister Reddy also reviewed the coal loading silos in the Gevra coal area and gathered insights into rail loading operations. At the viewpoint site, he attended a PowerPoint presentation on coal production initiatives by SECL, including efforts in transportation, technological integration, community development, and environmental protection.

SECL officials briefed the Minister on future plans aimed at increasing coal production. They shared a comprehensive overview of all activities within the mine area. Minister Reddy emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country is working with full transparency and determination to meet its energy needs while ensuring environmental sustainability.

He said, “Today, I inspected the Gevra mine, the largest in India and second-largest globally. I witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work of our officers and workers, who are fulfilling the nation’s energy needs even under challenging conditions.”

He also highlighted that, for the first time since India’s independence, under the directives of Prime Minister Modi, a concrete action plan is being prepared for mine closure activities. The plan will focus on developing greenery in accordance with environmental standards over the next three years.

On this occasion, Minister Reddy honored outstanding SECL employees and held discussions with workers, assuring them that their demands and suggestions would be considered.