Subhechcha Ganguly 
In a step towards being self-reliant in the Energy Sector, Odisha Coal and Power Limited (OCPL), the leading state-owned coal mining company, has emerged as the successful bidder for the Tangardihi -North coal block in the recently concluded 12th tranche of commercial coal block auctions conducted by the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. This Coal block is situated in the Sundergarh district of Odisha. OCPL is the first State Owned Coal Mine to bag a Commercial Coal Block in India. OCPL secured the block after a competitive bidding process, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth trajectory and contribution to state’s energy security.
This win reinforces OCPL’s commitment to expanding its operations and supporting the energy needs of the state and the nation. With the addition of Tangardihi-North to its portfolio, OCPL is expected to enhance its coal production capacity, further strengthening the state’s industrial backbone and employment generation efforts.
The commercial coal block auction, conducted under a transparent and competitive process, witnessed active participation from public and private sector players. The Ministry of Coal has stated that these auctions are a step forward in ensuring coal availability for various sectors while promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat
OCPL has already two Coal blocks, Manoharpur and Dip Side Coal block but both are dedicated for the Captive Coal supply to Odisha Power Generation Corporation Limited (OPGC). This Commercial Coal Block, Tangerdihi-North is a partially explored Coal block. The estimated coal reserve is about 1100 Million Ton of G-13 Grade. It has been found that Within the 410M deep, about 400Million Tons of G-13 grade quality Coal is there. This Commercial Coal mine along with the ancillary Coal units can generate revenue of about 3000 crores. It has been estimated that this commercial Coal mine will create 2500b Direct and about 3000 indirect employments in that area.
This auction process by Ministry Of Coal and OCPL’s bid was directly monitored by Hon.Dy Chief Minister Sri Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo and Principal Secretary Energy, Sri Vishal Dev,IAS. . Speaking on the occasion, a senior OCPL official said, “Winning the Tangardihi-North block is a proud moment for us. It aligns with our strategic vision to become a key player in the coal sector while maintaining our focus on responsible mining and sustainability.”
OCPL’s success in winning the Commercial Coal Block (Tangardihi-North) is because of the able and proper coordination between state Govt. departments and OCPL. This achievement of the state Govt. and OCPL has been appreciated at various levels including the Ministry of Coal
