Hindustan Copper Resumes Surda Mine Operations, Eyes Capacity Expansion

Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) has officially resumed operations at its Surda Mine, a significant step forward in India’s copper production and local economic development. 

The resumption ceremony was inaugurated by Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, Hon’ble Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Government of India, in the presence of key dignitaries including Shri Ramdas Soren, Minister of Water Resources Department, Minister of Higher Education and Technical Education, Government of Jharkhand, and Shri Bidyut Varan Mahato, Hon’ble MP, Jamshedpur. Several senior officials from the government, HCL, and local representatives also attended the event, reflecting the importance of this milestone.

Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, in his address, highlighted that the resumption of operations at the Surda Mine marks a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in copper production. The mine is expected to generate around ₹100 crore in annual revenue and create much-needed employment opportunities in the region. The operation will provide direct employment to approximately 1,100 individuals and indirect employment to about 5,000 local residents, contributing to the revival of the local economy.

HCL has also laid out ambitious plans to expand the capacity of the Surda Mine from its current level of 0.4 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 0.9 MTPA over the next 7 years. This expansion will further boost India’s copper production and enhance the country’s efforts towards self-sufficiency in this critical resource.

In addition to the Surda Mine, HCL is working on reopening the Kendadih and Rakha mines in Jharkhand, with the state government having approved the lease extensions for these mines in September 2024. The reopening of these mines is expected to create 2,000 direct and 10,000 indirect employment opportunities. These developments will not only increase copper production from the Indian Copper Complex but also significantly contribute to the economic growth of the region.

Shri Ghanshyam Sharma, CMD of Hindustan Copper Ltd, expressed his optimism about the impact of the resumed operations. He noted that HCL plans to invest ₹50 crore in mining operations during the fiscal year 2024-25. This investment will enhance the capacity of the Surda Mine, improve infrastructure, and support community welfare activities through increased Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in neighbouring villages.

The resumption of the Surda Mine operations reflects a collaborative effort between HCL and the Jharkhand Government, supported by the Central Ministry. With a vision to increase copper production and boost local employment, the reopening of Surda, Kendadih, and Rakha mines is poised to bring economic and social benefits to the region.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.