Sambalpur, Sep 1: Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has commissioned a 4,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) capacity silo at the Ib Valley Coal Washery in Lakhanpur area, Jharsuguda district of Odisha.

The commissioning of the silo facility adds further strength to MCL’s expanding First Mile Connectivity (FMC) and mechanised coal evacuation infrastructure. It integrates modern coal-handling systems with rail-based transportation facilitating efficient movement of washed coal from the washery to consumers, while reducing dependence on conventional coal-handling practices.

A. K. Pandey, General Manager, Lakhanpur Area, and Ghanshyam, Area Railway Manager, Indian Railways, jointly inaugurated the silo facility in the presence of senior officials and employees of MCL and Indian Railways.

MCL is consistently adopting advanced mechanisation and investing in modern FMC and rail infrastructure to enhance the efficiency of coal evacuation. The state-of-the-art silo will facilitate systematic storage and faster, mechanised loading of washed coal into railway rakes, enabling smoother dispatch operations, better rake utilisation and improved overall efficiency and reliability of coal transportation to consumers.

The facility will also further strengthen coordination between MCL and Indian Railways, facilitating seamless and efficient coal movement.

With a capacity of 10 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA), Ib Valley Coal Washery is the largest non-coking coal beneficiation facility of Coal India. The addition of the 4,000 MT silo further strengthens the washery’s infrastructure for efficient handling, storage and rail dispatch of washed coal.

The technology-driven facility is expected to contribute to enhanced consumer satisfaction through more efficient and reliable coal supplies.