South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) achieved a major milestone in sustainable and safe underground mining with the launch of Coal India’s first Paste Filling Technology project at the Singhali Underground Mine in the DSB Sub-Area of Korba, Chhattisgarh.
The groundbreaking ceremony, or Bhoomi Pujan, was held on Friday under the leadership of SECL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan. The initiative marks a pioneering step toward eco-friendly and safer underground coal mining practices.
Ramesh Chandra Mohapatra, Director (Technical) – Projects & Planning, SECL, attended the event as Chief Guest. Other senior officials, including Atul Dwivedi, Managing Director (TMC); Rajesh Kumar Gupta, General Manager, Korba Area; and Ajay Tiwari, General Manager (Production), SECL Headquarters, were also present.
The ceremony saw enthusiastic participation from SECL officers, employees, and members of the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) of the DSB Sub-Area, reflecting the company’s focus on collaboration and inclusive growth.
Following the event, a tree plantation drive was organised at the site, where senior officials planted saplings, underscoring SECL’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable mining.
Paste Filling Technology involves filling mine voids with a specially prepared paste made from fly ash, tailings, or other mine waste mixed with water and cementitious binders. This method enhances underground stability and safety while reducing the challenges of surface waste disposal. It also helps protect surface water bodies and minimize land degradation.
With the adoption of this technology at the Singhali Underground Mine, SECL has taken a forward-looking step toward greener and safer mining operations, in line with Coal India’s broader vision for sustainability and technological innovation.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, recognising the contributions of all teams involved in bringing this landmark project to reality.