In a significant development aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat as championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) has successfully recommenced coal production at its long-abandoned PB Project. The revival has been executed under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) model, marking the first such operational project within the Coal India Limited (CIL) group. This strategic move not only reclaims a defunct asset but also positions BCCL as a forerunner in public-private collaboration for India’s energy security.
Awarded to Eagle Infra India Limited for a 25-year term, the PB Project is expected to produce a total of 52 million tonnes of coal over its operational life, with a peak rated capacity (PRC) of 2.7 million tonnes per year. Importantly, the output will primarily comprise coking coal, a critical raw material for India’s steel and infrastructure sectors, which currently rely heavily on imports.
The project signifies a robust model of collaboration between the public and private sectors, leveraging private sector efficiency to revive dormant coal mines. This initiative is also aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on imported coking coal by significantly enhancing domestic supply. Through the adoption of advanced mining technologies and globally benchmarked operational practices, the PB Project promises improved productivity, environmental responsibility, and safer mining standards. It is also expected to generate substantial local employment and stimulate regional economic activity, further contributing to inclusive national development.
Under the revenue-sharing mechanism of the MDO model, BCCL will earn 6% of the gross revenue generated from the project. This approach ensures transparency and equitable profit-sharing while setting a new standard for future mining collaborations.
This milestone has been achieved under the dynamic leadership of Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, and MoS for Coal and Mines, Satish Chander Dubey, with strategic direction from Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary, Ministry of Coal. Their guidance has been instrumental in transforming a long-idle resource into a symbol of opportunity and growth.
Speaking virtually at the inauguration, PM Prasad, Chairman of Coal India Limited, hailed the revival of the PB Project as a ‘pioneering step.’ He emphasized that the initiative transcends the mere reopening of a mine, it reflects a paradigm shift in how India addresses legacy challenges by turning them into engines of economic and strategic value. He highlighted its potential to empower local communities and contribute meaningfully to India’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency.
The launch event also saw the presence of Samiran Dutta, CMD of BCCL, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Coal, Coal India Limited, and other stakeholders for their unwavering support. He reaffirmed BCCL’s commitment to national priorities such as Mission Coking Coal, import reduction, and sustainable mining practices. Also attending were Murli Krishna Ramaiah, Director (HR); SK Singh, Director (Technical) Operations; Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Director (Technical), Project & Planning; along with senior leadership from Eagle Infra.
