ECL Sets New Benchmark in Green Mining with AI-Driven Drone Monitoring

Sanctoria, 7th January 2026: Eastern Coalfields Limited has taken a significant step towards strengthening environmental stewardship by deploying AI-driven drone monitoring in the Sonepur Bazari Area as part of a comprehensive scientific reclamation and green cover assessment initiative. The initiative leverages high-resolution UAV surveys and advanced geospatial analytics to objectively evaluate plantation performance and ecological restoration across reclaimed mining land.

The study is being conducted by the CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) using state-of-the-art methodologies, including drone-based orthomosaic mapping, GIS and GPS-enabled spatial validation, vegetation health analysis through scientific indices and quadrat-based ecological surveys for robust ground-truthing.

This integrated approach enables precise, transparent and data-driven assessment of plantation survival rates, canopy development, species composition, spatial distribution and overall reclamation success. The convergence of AI and UAV technologies significantly enhances accuracy, scalability and consistency in environmental monitoring, thereby supporting informed decision-making related to mine closure planning and long-term ecological management.

Through the adoption of advanced digital tools and rigorous scientific research, ECL reaffirms its commitment to ESG compliance, sustainable mining practices and transparent environmental governance. The initiative establishes a new benchmark for the application of digital technologies in ecological restoration within the mining sector, underscoring ECL’s role as a forward-looking and responsible public sector enterprise.

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About Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL):

Eastern Coalfields Limited, a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), is headquartered at Sanctoria, West Bengal. ECL operates in West Bengal and Jharkhand and plays a strategic role in meeting the nation’s coal requirements. With a focus on sustainable mining, safety, and operational excellence, ECL continues to contribute to the country’s energy security.