New Delhi, Dec 30 (Reporter) Aditya Birla Group’s metals flagship company Hindalco Industries on Monday announced that it has been allocated Meenakshi Coal Mine in Odisha through a vesting order by the Ministry of Coal, marking a pivotal step in the company’s journey towards resource securitisation, energy efficiency and sustainable growth. The Meenakshi coal mine is a fully explored block with a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 12 million tonnes per annum and about 285.23 million tonnes of geological reserves. With a favourable coal-to-waste stripping ratio of less than 1, the G12 grade mine is poised to be a cost-effective and sustainable energy source for company’s operations, making the company self-reliant in coal production, the company said in a release. The allocation of the Meenakshi mine aligns with Hindalco’s strategy to reduce operating costs and boost energy self-sufficiency. The mined coal will replace the company’s dependence on auction and linkage coal which is currently estimated at approximately 40 percent higher than the Meenakshi coal mine, thereby ensuring a stable supply for its smelters and solidifying its position as one of the lowest cost producers of aluminium in the world Beyond operational benefits, the Meenakshi mine is poised to drive transformative regional impact by strengthening India’s energy security, enhancing national coal production, and catalysing economic growth. The project is expected to create approximately 16,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, improving local livelihoods and fostering community development. The milestone reinforces Hindalco’s commitment to sustainable practices, responsible mining, and its vision of contributing to India’s energy independence and industrial progress. The company expects to commence coal production in 2028, subject to receipt of regulatory clearances and requisite approvals...////...