Coal news and updates

SCCL exploring participation in coal block auction

November 20: Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL), a state-owned coal miner, is considering taking part in the e-auction of cancelled captive coal blocks slated for February 2015, a company official told ICMW.

“We are looking into it. We are exploring the opportunity and will take a strategic call,” the official said.

Noting that SCCL has been “actively looking for” coal blocks outside its home turf in Telengana, he said, “if the auction appears to be a good opportunity, we may go for it.”

“Currently, we are exploring what other public sector companies are doing. We may also hold discussions with the government and concerned ministry,” said the official.

“However, since getting a coal block free of cost and competing with others for the same are two different things, a lot of thought will be put before a decision is arrived at,” he added.

Asked if the company would be allowed to commercially mine coal from blocks that will be allotted essentially for captive mining, the official said, “We are looking into all these aspects.”