Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt Inspects Fire-Affected Aina Colliery in Dhanbad

Coal Secretary, Government of India, Vikram Dev Dutt began his two-day visit to Dhanbad on Thursday with an inspection of the fire-affected Aina (Anna) Colliery of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL). He was accompanied by Coal India Limited (CIL) Chairman Sanoj Kumar Jha, BCCL CMD Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Director (HR) Murali Krishna Ramaiah, Director (Technical–Operations) Sanjay Kumar Singh, Director (Technical–Project & Planning) Niladri Roy, senior Ministry of Coal officials, and officers of Coal Bhawan and the Regional Office.

During the field inspection, the Coal Secretary reviewed the fire control measures, safety management practices, environmental protection efforts, and rehabilitation progress in the affected zones. BCCL officials briefed him on the ongoing initiatives to curb underground fire, prevent gas emissions, stabilize vulnerable sites, and safeguard local residents living near the impacted areas.

Mr. Dutt praised BCCL’s efforts and emphasized that dealing with mine fires requires a scientific approach, innovative technology, and community participation. He directed the deployment of modern fire control technologies and encouraged proactive engagement with local communities to ensure sustainable, long-term solutions.

CIL Chairman Sanoj Kumar Jha reiterated Coal India’s commitment to safe and sustainable mining, saying: “The Coal India family is committed to meeting the nation’s energy needs while ensuring safety and environmental responsibility. BCCL is handling challenging mining operations in fire-affected zones. Our priority remains safety, transparency, and sustainability at every stage of coal production.”

Earlier, upon the arrival of the Coal Secretary and the CIL Chairman at Durgapur Airport, BCCL CMD Manoj Kumar Agarwal welcomed them with a floral bouquet. ECL CMD Satish Jha, BCCL Director (Technical-Operations) Sanjay Kumar Singh, and other senior BCCL officials were also present.

During his two-day visit, the Coal Secretary will take part in several development-oriented activities, including reviews of major BCCL projects, fire-affected areas, and rehabilitation programmes.