Dipka Open Cast Project, run by South Eastern Coalfields Limited, has grown into one of India’s biggest coal mines. It started small, producing around 1 million tonnes back in 1992. Fast forward to FY 2025–26, and it hit a record 37.5 million tonnes of production with 39.43 million tonnes dispatched. Its Environmental Clearance was recently raised to 40 Million Tonnes Per Annum, and the project is now aiming higher still, working toward a 60 MTPA target.
Growth continues into FY 2026–27
The mine hasn’t slowed down. As of 25 July 2026, it had already produced 12.66 million tonnes of coal for the year, 104% of its target for that period and a 30.5% jump over the same stretch last year. Dispatch numbers tell a similar story: 13.87 million tonnes moved out, or 109% of the target. Because production and dispatch have kept pace with each other, thermal power plants and industrial buyers have had a steady, uninterrupted coal supply.
Profits are up too
FY 2025–26 wasn’t just about volume. Dipka OCP posted a profit of ₹3,230.91 crore, making it one of SECL’s top earners. Profit per tonne climbed to ₹827 on the back of tighter cost management and smarter operations, so the mine managed to grow output and its bottom line at the same time.
Building for what’s ahead
Scaling up production means dealing with land, and Dipka has been active on that front. After completing the acquisition of Malgaon village, work has moved on to the rehabilitation and resettlement of Hardi Bazar, one of the larger such efforts in the region. The plan includes a new township with roads, schools, healthcare facilities and other civic infrastructure, so that families affected by the mining expansion aren’t left without support while the project secures the land it needs.
On the logistics side, Dipka runs an integrated coal evacuation setup: Merry-Go-Round silos, First Mile Connectivity silos, rail loading points and road transport. That network keeps coal moving to major buyers, including NTPC Sipat and other thermal stations across western and central India.
Technology and environmental steps
Equipment-wise, the mine uses 42-cubic metre electric rope shovels, surface miners, in-pit belt conveyors and modern silo loading systems. Drones handle mine monitoring, and digital platforms help manage day-to-day operations.
On the environmental side, Dipka runs Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems, fog cannons for dust control, wheel washing units, plantation drives and electric vehicles, plus a plastic waste recycling setup. Digital monitoring tools have made it easier to track compliance and keep operations transparent.
Key Takeaway: With the enhanced 40 MTPA clearance now in place, and infrastructure, rehabilitation and technology upgrades all moving forward together, Dipka OCP is working steadily toward its 60 MTPA goal. Given its output, profitability and the scale of its logistics network, it’s positioned to remain a key supplier for India’s power and industrial sectors for some time to come.
MCQ’s:
1. The Dipka Open Cast Project (OCP) is operated by which of the following public sector companies?
(A) Coal India Limited
(B) South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL)
(C) NLC India Limited
(D) Singareni Collieries Company Limited
2. The recently enhanced Environmental Clearance (EC) for the Dipka Open Cast Project permits an annual production capacity of:
(A) 37.5 MTPA
(B) 40 MTPA
(C) 50 MTPA
(D) 60 MTPA
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