Hindustan Copper Restarts Surda Mine Operations

Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, laid the foundation for two coal handling plants in Bokaro and Kargali, expected to significantly enhance coal transportation efficiency, reducing loading times from five to one hour. The Karo and Konar plants will facilitate First Mile Rail Connectivity, enabling coal dispatch to thermal power plants across India. Additionally, Dubey inaugurated the resumption of operations at Hindustan Copper Limited’s Surda Mine, aiming to boost copper production capacity from 0.4 mtpa to 0.9 mtpa, which will generate approximately ₹100 crore in revenue and create 1,100 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs. Plans for reopening Kendadih and Rakha mines were also discussed, which could triple the Indian Copper Complex's output and further benefit local employment. Investments of ₹50 crore are slated for the Surda Mine operations in 2024-25, promising to revitalize the local economy. The initiatives reflect a broader strategy to enhance self-reliance in the mining sector and improve local livelihoods.