Coal Controller Reviews Sustainable Mine Closure Initiatives at South Balanda OCP, MCL

March 19, 2026: Shri Sajeesh Kumar N, Coal Controller at the Ministry of Coal, visited South Balanda Open Cast Project (OCP) under the Jagannath Area, Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), to review advanced sustainable mine closure initiatives.

The South Balanda OCP has been adopted by the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO) as a model site for repurposing closed mines into community-oriented development projects. The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to transform decommissioned mining areas into spaces for inclusive and sustainable land use.

Shri SK Jha, Director (Technical), MCL; GM (Jagannath Area); GM (E&F); OSD CCO SBP; and senior officials from MCL, CMDPIL, and IIT Kanpur accompanied Shri Kumar and provided detailed briefings on the initiatives undertaken at the site.

Following the site review, Shri Kumar chaired a meeting with the District Collector of Angul, members of the Mine Closure Advisory Committee (MCAC), and Nodal Officers (Mine Closure), MCL to accelerate responsible land use planning and inclusive development strategies in the region.

The review underscores the Ministry of Coal’s commitment to sustainable mining practices, promoting environmental rehabilitation, and turning closed mining sites into community-benefiting assets.

About Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL):
MCL is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited and one of India’s largest coal-producing companies, focusing on mining operations, sustainable practices, and responsible land use initiatives.