Ambikapur–Udaipur : The Parsa East and Kanta Basan (PEKB) open-cast coal mine and the Parsa open-cast coal mine of Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RRVUNL) have created a new benchmark in mine safety by winning multiple prestigious awards at the Annual Coal Mine Safety Fortnight–2025. The competition evaluated mines on parameters such as safety performance, operational excellence, environmental management, and technological innovation.
The award ceremony was held at SECL’s Baikunthpur Area under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) and was jointly organised by SECL and Non-SECL companies. Senior officials present on the occasion included DGMS Director General Ujjwal Tah, Deputy Director General Ramavatar Meena, DMS officials from Raigarh, Bilaspur and Jabalpur, along with DDMS (Mining, Mechanical and Electrical) from various coalfields.
PEKB OCM shines in Group-F (Mega Project) category
The PEKB open-cast mine delivered an outstanding performance in the Group-F (Mega Project) category, securing first position in Mine Working, Dump Management & Reclamation, and Near-Miss Record Keeping. The mine also achieved second position in the evaluation based on Systematic Mining Practices (SMP) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), while securing third position overall in the group.
The outsourcing partner, M/s Karamjeet Singh Limited, was awarded second position for its significant contribution to safety and operational standards. Notably, PEKB has consistently featured among top performers in DGMS safety competitions over the past several years, underlining its sustained commitment to safety excellence.
Strong debut by Parsa OCM in Group-D
In its very first year of participation, the Parsa Open-Cast Mine delivered a commendable performance. Competing in the Group-D category, the mine secured first position in Mine Working as well as Dump Management & Reclamation. It also achieved second position in the SMP & SOP category and third position overall in Group-D.
These achievements highlight the mine’s strong focus on operational discipline, teamwork and a safety-centric work culture from the outset.
Leadership and safety-first approach
The success of both mines has been attributed to the leadership of the CoC – Sarguja Cluster, headed by Mukesh Kumar, Cluster Head. The efforts of Vipin Kumar Singh, Site Head (PEKB), and Gali Tarun, Safety Officer, were also acknowledged for strengthening safety systems, operational standards and continuous technical improvements.
RRVUNL has been following a safety-first policy since 2012. At PEKB, advanced practices such as Dozer Push Mining Technology, Slope Stability Radar Monitoring, a robust Near-Miss Reporting System, and effective Reclamation Practices have significantly enhanced both safety performance and operational efficiency. Environment-friendly mining, sustainable development and adoption of advanced technologies remain central to RRVUNL’s mining strategy.
Official statement
Cluster Head Mukesh Kumar said,
“These achievements are the result of the hard work, discipline and safety-first mindset of our entire team. We will continue to accord the highest priority to safe and responsible mining.”
RRVUNL’s coal mines reaffirm their commitment to further strengthening safety standards, adopting emerging technologies and promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices in the years ahead.
