South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, is stepping up security at its mining operations in Chhattisgarh by deploying 120 armed personnel of the Chhattisgarh State Industrial Security Force (CSISF) in the Bishrampur and Baikunthpur coalfields.
The decision comes amid recurring incidents of coal theft and the theft of valuable machinery, electrical equipment, cables and other critical components from mining establishments, causing financial losses to the company.
According to reports, SECL headquarters in Bilaspur has entered into an agreement with the state security force for the deployment. The first contingent of armed personnel is scheduled to reach Bishrampur on November 15.
A camp has already been prepared at Kumda Colony in the Bishrampur area to accommodate the personnel. Following their arrival, the deployment plan and responsibilities will be finalised, with personnel assigned to both Bishrampur and Baikunthpur according to operational requirements.
Existing Security Arrangements Failed to Stop Theft
The latest deployment comes despite the presence of Tripura State Rifles (TSR) personnel in SECL’s mining areas.
The existing security arrangements have failed to completely prevent incidents of coal theft and the removal of expensive equipment and machinery components from mine premises.
The repeated theft of electrical installations, cables and other critical equipment has emerged as a serious concern, with the potential to disrupt mining operations and cause substantial financial damage.
Sensitive Mines to Get Additional Protection
Under the proposed arrangement, the 120 armed personnel will be deployed at strategically important and vulnerable locations, including sensitive mines, coal storage facilities and other critical installations.
The additional force is expected to strengthen surveillance and improve the security response in areas vulnerable to theft and unauthorised entry.
Effectiveness of New Deployment Under Scrutiny
The deployment marks an additional security initiative by SECL to protect its coal reserves and valuable mining assets. However, the real test will be whether the strengthened security arrangements can finally bring recurring theft incidents under control.
Coordination between SECL management, security personnel and local police will remain crucial to ensuring effective monitoring and action against those involved in organised theft.
With the first contingent expected to arrive on November 15, the focus will now shift to how effectively the new force is deployed across the Bishrampur and Baikunthpur coalfields.
