After remaining closed for nearly three years, Hindustan Copper Limited’s (HCL) Kendadih Mines resumed operations this week with the dispatch of Copper ore to the Musabani concentrator plant. The mine, which had stopped production on 31st July 2022 following lease expiry, has now restarted activity after the renewal of lease and necessary approvals from the State Mining Department. Officials, including HCL Executive Director Shyamsundar Rohi, GM Mines Deepak Srivastava, and HR Head Amanatullah Khan, marked the occasion with a ceremonial flag-off.
Also Read: Khetan Mining Won Kendadih Mines Contract, HCL to Resume Copper Production After Two Years
Lease Renewal Cleared the Path for Ore Dispatch
According to company sources, mining work had been halted since 2022 pending lease extension. Following approval, the district mining office issued the dispatch challan, allowing ore transportation to begin. Currently, 10000 tonnes of Copper ore are stocked at the site, which will be moved in phases. The mine is expected to produce around 300 tonnes of Copper ore per day once full operations resume. HCL has deposited Rs. 3.19 lakh as transit fees to the Forest Department, marking the first official movement under the renewed lease.
Also Read: Hindustan Copper and Jharkhand Government Signed 20-Year Lease for Rakha Copper Mine
Employment and Production Outlook
Nearly 300 workers are associated with Kendadih Mines, with 59 employees currently engaged in de-watering and maintenance work in three shifts. Full-scale mining will resume once equipment repairs are completed. The Jharkhand Government has extended the lease for 30 years, and Khetan Mining Pvt. Ltd. has been awarded a 10 year, Rs. 730 crores global contract for mining and ore development. Annual production is projected at 2.5 lakh tonnes, with a Copper grade of 1.25%. The revived operations are expected to generate steady employment, boost regional economic activity, and contribute regular royalty and forest revenue to the State.
Also Read: Jamshedpur MP Pushed for Copper and Uranium Mines Revival, UCIL Gave Positive Response
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