The Western Coalfields Ltd (WCL), a subsidiary of Coal India, has recently made headlines with the introduction of a new surveillance system named WCL EYE. Alongside this, they have also released a mobile application called SAMVAAD. Both initiatives aim to enhance their mining operations and build stronger relationships with employees and stakeholders.
Introducing WCL EYE
The WCL EYE is a leap into the digital era for the company. It’s essentially a surveillance system tailored to monitor operations at 15 of the major mines owned by the company. Interestingly, these mines are responsible for approximately 70% of the company’s total coal production.
The duties of the WCL EYE include keeping a close watch on coal stocks and assessing the availability of coal at sidings. It will also be responsible for monitoring the placement of rakes and overseeing the loading at railway sidings. By doing so, it ensures accountability and efficient operations across the monitored sites.
Discovering SAMVAAD
SAMVAAD is an innovative mobile and desktop app designed for employees and stakeholders alike. Its main purpose is to serve as a virtual platform that encourages suggestions, feedback, and experience sharing. To ensure every voice is heard, Quick Response Teams have been established to address queries and feedback within a 7-day mandated timeframe.
About Coal India Limited (CIL)
Coal India Limited (CIL) stands as a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) that came into existence in November 1975. Holding the title as the world’s single largest coal producer, it’s no surprise that CIL contributes around 83% of India’s overall coal production and provides about 40% of the nation’s primary commercial energy requirements.
In line with its promise to implement clean coal technology, CIL has plans to establish a coal-based Methanol plant in the premises of Dankuni Coal Complex (DCC) near Kolkata.
Coal Sector under Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan initiative, some significant changes have been introduced to the coal sector. Commercial mining, for instance, is now based on a revenue-sharing mechanism, effectively ending the government’s monopoly over coal mining.
In addition, Coal Gasification or Liquefaction will now be incentivised. Further to this, an infrastructure investment worth Rs 50,000 crores has been committed to boost production in the sector. There are also plans to undertake a simplification of the mining plan to further incentivise production.
The introduction of WCL EYE and SAMVAAD platforms by WCL signify a progressive step towards embracing technology for improved operational efficiency and stakeholder interaction. This approach aligns with the ongoing initiatives to invigorate the coal sector within the framework of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
