ECL Targets 81 MT Coal Production by 2034–35; Posts Highest-Ever Output

Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) is setting its sights on a long-term target of 81 million tonnes of coal production by 2034–35. The company’s roadmap and current performance were outlined by Chairman-cum-Managing Director Shri Satish Jha at a press meet held at the Headquarters in Sanctoria, Asansol.

Record production and financial turnaround

ECL achieved its highest-ever coal production of 52.085 MT in FY 2025–26 despite significant financial challenges that resulted in a loss of approximately ₹1,257 crore that year.

The company has since shown clear signs of recovery. In the April–June quarter of FY 2026–27, ECL moved into profit before tax, reflecting the impact of corrective measures and improved operational focus.

Mine performance strategy

The number of loss-making mines has been declining. Currently, 57 mines remain loss-making while 20 mines are operating profitably. ECL has adopted mine-specific strategies that include:

• Introduction of mass production technology in 19 mines

• Amalgamation of 7 mines

• HOE contracts in 4 mines

• Strategic closure of 11 mines

• Cost-control measures in the remaining mines

Rehabilitation and community focus

Under the Raniganj Rehabilitation and Resettlement Plan 2009, 138 sites have been identified with an allocation of about ₹2,661 crore. Legal title holders receive compensation and housing benefits as per rules, while other affected residents are covered under the prescribed rehabilitation framework.

Key operational challenges

Electricity pilferage remains a major concern. Against an annual electricity expenditure of around ₹550 crore, losses of approximately ₹250 crore are attributed to theft and pilferage.

On illegal mining, the CMD noted that rat-hole mining has almost been eliminated with support from the District Administration. ECL has strengthened security through enhanced CISF deployment, drone surveillance and Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) systems.

Sustainable mining

ECL is exploring alternative technologies for filling mine voids instead of relying solely on conventional sand stowing, and remains committed to scientific mine closure and environmentally responsible extraction of non-coking coal.

Shri Jha concluded that ECL’s future growth will be driven by operational efficiency, financial discipline, employee participation, technological innovation and responsible rehabilitation of mining-affected communities, while steadily advancing towards the 81 MT production target by 2034–35.