BCCL Strengthens Security Framework to Combat Illegal Mining, Holds High-Level Review Meeting

A high-level security review meeting was held at Koyla Bhawan Headquarters to strengthen the security framework across Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) mining areas and intensify efforts to curb illegal mining and coal theft. The meeting was chaired by BCCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Manoj Kumar Agarwal.

The meeting was attended by Director (HR) Murali Krishna Ramaiah, Director (Technical/Operations) Sanjay Kumar Singh, Director (Finance) Rajesh Kumar, Director (Technical/Project & Planning) Rajiv Kumar Sinha, DIG (CISF) Rajiv Mishra, senior CISF officials, General Managers, Heads of Departments from Koyla Bhawan Headquarters, and Regional General Managers. General Managers from five BCCL regions also joined virtually.

Comprehensive Review of Security Measures

Senior BCCL management and CISF officials conducted an extensive review of security arrangements, enforcement operations, and coordinated initiatives aimed at making the company’s security architecture more robust, technology-driven, and outcome-oriented.

Discussions focused on improving operational efficiency, institutional coordination, and strengthening preventive mechanisms against illegal mining and coal theft.

Stronger Enforcement Under MMDR Act

A significant part of the meeting focused on improving procedures under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act).

Officials reviewed the seizure process, documentation, and custody arrangements for confiscated materials to ensure legally sound action against illegal mining activities.

The meeting emphasized:

• Identification of secure locations for storing seized materials.
• Eliminating risks of damage, pilferage, or legal disputes during custody.
• Adoption of a uniform Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) across all BCCL areas.
• Standardized implementation of custody memos with proper management acknowledgement to improve transparency and accountability.

CCTV Integration and Enhanced Surveillance

The meeting also approved several technology-driven initiatives to strengthen security infrastructure across mining operations.

These include:

• Installation of CCTV surveillance systems integrated with the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) across all outsourcing and MDO-operated mines.
• Construction of boundary walls and installation of concertina fencing around railway sidings, coal mines, coal dumps, and other vulnerable locations.
• Strengthening CISF deployment during night shifts.
• Dedicated logistical support for security operations and enforcement raids.
• Upgradation of vehicle tracking systems for better monitoring of coal transportation.

CMD Emphasises Technology and Accountability

Addressing the meeting, Manoj Kumar Agarwal said that ensuring safe, transparent, and accountable mining operations, along with effective protection of national assets, remains one of BCCL’s highest priorities.

He stressed that modern technology, strong security infrastructure, continuous monitoring, and close coordination among all agencies are essential for effectively combating illegal mining, coal theft, and related criminal activities.

He directed officials to ensure timely implementation of all decisions taken during the meeting and called for greater accountability at every level.

CISF Reports Major Successes Against Illegal Mining

The meeting also reviewed security and enforcement achievements recorded between July 5 and July 15, 2026.

According to CISF:

• 41 anti-coal theft raids were conducted.
• 882.02 tonnes of illegally extracted coal were seized.
• 14 two-wheelers and four other vehicles were confiscated under the MMDR Act.
• 120 litres of diesel and two iron pipes were recovered as scrap.
• 12 cases were registered under the MMDR Act, while five additional cases are under process.
• 742 vehicles were inspected during day and night surprise checking operations.

Government’s Tough Stand on Illegal Mining

The meeting noted that the Central Government has strengthened provisions under the MMDR Act to deal more effectively with illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minerals.

Officials observed that these strengthened legal provisions have significantly enhanced the role of agencies such as CISF in preventing illegal mining and protecting national resources.

The participants reaffirmed that the Government of India and the Ministry of Home Affairs continue to encourage coordinated enforcement among all concerned agencies to eliminate illegal mining and coal theft.

Commitment to Continuous Monitoring

At the conclusion of the meeting, BCCL management and CISF officials reiterated their commitment to sustained, coordinated, and technology-enabled action against illegal mining and coal theft.

It was decided that security arrangements across all BCCL operational areas will be reviewed regularly to ensure timely implementation of security measures, strengthen asset protection, safeguard national resources, and maintain uninterrupted coal production and supply.