Western Coalfields gets green nod for Rs 263 crore expansion project

NEW DELHI: State-run Coal India arm Western Coalfields has received the environment clearance for its Rs 263 crore expansion project in Nagpur district, Maharashtra. The proposal is to enhance the production capacity of the Gokul open cast mine to 1.875 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) from the existing 1 MTPA. The mine, located in 767.17 hectare, has a mineable reserve of 14.50 million tonnes. "Based on the recommendations of the expert advisory committee, Union Environment Ministry has given environment clearance (EC) for the expansion project of Gokul mine in Nagpur," a senior government official said. The clearance to the project is subject to certain conditions. Total cost is estimated to be 263 crore, he said.