Bhubaneswar, Feb 24: Mining operations of Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) have been put to first track.
Reviewing the progress of mines owned by OMC, Padhi advised the State-owned company to focus on mines with large reserves. The Chief Secretary directed OMC to take appropriate technical expertise and adequate safety measures for underground mining activities.
Replying to media queries after the meeting, Managing Director OMC Girish SN said, “OMC was allotted a total of 35 mines out of which four gemstone mines were found financially unviable”.
He added that these mines will be surrendered to the Ministry of Mines soon. “Five projects including Daitari iron ore mine, Gandhamardan Block-B, Kurmitar Iron Ore mine , South Kaliapani Chromite Mines and Sukrangi Chromite Mines have already been put to production”, said Girish, adding mines like Khandabandh, Bansapani, Koira, Kasira, Bhanjapali, Dubnasekradihi, Rantha and Mahaparbat have been elevated to G2 level.
The official further added that in the current year the total mineral production has been 5.6 MT by mid-February. “Target has been set to produce 6.5 MT by end of March, 2016. Steps are being taken to enhance the production of OMC to 10 MT in coming financial year”, he said.
Meanwhile, Ore production target of 6.55 million tonne (MT) has been set by State-owned miner Odisha Mining Corporation for the financial year 2016-17, said Managing Director OMC Girish SN here.
“This year we have a target to produce 6.55 MT ore. It will be gradually increased to 10 MT in the next financial year,” Girish said.
Plans are afoot to increase the production at its key iron ore mines – Kurmita and Gandhamardan – in a mechanized format, he stated. Official sources said to boost production, OMC has decided to go for a new 1000 tonnes per hour (TPH) ore handling plant along with 3200 TPH mechanised wagon loading system, besides related railway infrastructure.
“Proposals have been drafted to increase production at Kurmita and Gandhamardan mines through mechanized mining and it will be implemented soon,” the official said.
