Bhubaneswar: Union Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt Thursday reviewed the operational performance of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), appreciating the company’s consistent performance and technological advancements while calling for sustained efforts to maximise coal production and despatch.
Chairing a review meeting here, Dutt lauded MCL as the youngest and a technology-driven subsidiary of Coal India Limited, noting its progressive approach, technological capabilities and promising growth trajectory.
He also appreciated the company’s performance across various operational parameters. During the meeting, MCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Uday Anant Kaole briefed the Secretary on the company’s ongoing operations, digital initiatives, diversification prospects and operational challenges. MCL Chief Vigilance Officer Sambeet Sourav Nayak also apprised him of the vigilance initiatives undertaken by the company.
Highlighting the crucial role of the coal sector in ensuring uninterrupted energy supply to the country, Dutt said sustained efforts were necessary to overcome operational challenges and enhance coal production and despatch.
He particularly stressed the need for efficient coal evacuation, pointing out that discussions were underway with the Railways to augment coal transportation capacity across various rail sectors. Strengthening the evacuation network, he said, was essential to complement rising production and ensure seamless coal supply.
The Coal Secretary also underlined the importance of first mile connectivity (FMC) projects, which remain a key priority of the Centre. He emphasised that improved evacuation infrastructure would play a vital role in enhancing the overall efficiency of coal supply operations.
The meeting was attended by MCL Director (Technical) Sanjay Kumar Jha, Director (Finance) Nirmal Kumar Singh, Area General Managers, heads of departments and other senior officials. The meeting concluded with Dutt felicitating the best-performing employees of MCL in recognition of their exemplary work and valuable contributions to the company.