CMPDI, BCCL and MECL Review Exploration Work at Amalgamated Block-II OCP in Dhanbad

Kolkata: Officials from Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Bharat Coking Coal Limited and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited reviewed ongoing exploration and drilling activities at the Amalgamated Block-II Open Cast Project (OCP) in Dhanbad on May 19, 2026.

The visit was led by Shri G. S. Gahlot, Regional Director of CMPDI RI-II, Dhanbad, along with officials from CMPDI, BCCL and MECL.

The ongoing exploration programme is being jointly undertaken by CMPDI and MECL to assess the possible spread of underground fire toward the Dhanbad–Chandrapura and Adra–Gomoh railway lines.

During the inspection, Shri Gahlot interacted with the drilling crew to review operational challenges and stressed the importance of strict safety compliance during exploration activities.

He also assured necessary support from Bharat Coking Coal Limited authorities for smooth and safe execution of the project work.

The initiative is considered important for evaluating underground fire risks and protecting critical railway infrastructure in the coal belt region of Jharkhand.