The West Bengal government is set to begin open-cast mining operations at the Deocha-Pachami coal block, India's largest and the world's second-largest coal reserve, in February.

The project, led by the West Bengal Power Development Corporation (WBPDCL), aims to maximise the block’s potential using a mix of traditional and innovative methods. According to WBPDCL Managing Director PB Salim, 70 percent of the coal will be extracted through open-cast and underground mining, while 30 percent will utilise underground coal gasification, particularly in areas unsuitable for conventional methods.

The gasification technique is being explored through consultations with Indian and foreign experts and could span an area of 1,000 acres.

The Rs 35,000-crore project is expected to be transformative for the Birbhum district. Initial phases will involve overburden removal by the mining development and operator (MDO). Feasibility studies for coal gasification are underway for deposits up to 400 mtrs. deep, with plans to leverage this method for full resource utilisation.