Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy Inaugurates Key Projects, Reviews Operations at WCL
Nagpur: Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, currently on a two-day visit to Western Coalfields Limited (WCL), virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several infrastructure and development projects while reviewing the company’s operational performance.
During the programme on Friday, the Minister virtually flagged off 25 electric vehicles aimed at supporting cleaner and more efficient operations within the organisation. He also laid the foundation stones for three major projects: the Black Diamond Sports Stadium in the Kamptee area of Nagpur, the Swami Vivekananda Eco Park in Tadali in Wani area, and a First Mile Connectivity (FMC) Project at the Sasti Open Cast Mine in the Ballarpur area.
The projects are expected to strengthen regional infrastructure, promote environmental sustainability, and modernise coal mining operations.
Following the inauguration, the Union Minister conducted a detailed review meeting on WCL’s performance, focusing on coal production, safety measures, sustainable development initiatives, environmental protection, and upcoming projects.
Praising the work culture and performance of the organisation, Reddy commended Team WCL for its achievements and expressed confidence that the company would deliver even stronger results in the current financial year. He also discussed WCL’s role in the evolving landscape of the coal industry.
During the meeting, WCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan presented a detailed overview of the company’s achievements during the financial year 2025–26.
Senior officials present at the meeting included Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal, B. Sairam, Chairman of Coal India Limited, along with other senior officers from the Ministry of Coal, Coal India Limited, and WCL.
As part of his visit, the Union Minister will also inspect the ongoing mine closure process at the Murpar underground mine on March 14, 2026. He is scheduled to hold a meeting with the District Collector and members of the Mine Closure Advisory Committee (MCAC).
Representatives from WCL’s Mine Closure team, non-governmental organisations, consultants, and members of local villages are expected to participate in the meeting to discuss issues related to mine closure and rehabilitation.
