Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has significantly ramped up coal production and supply operations following the receding monsoon. As of September 8, 2026, NCL’s coal production increased by 67% and supply by 75% compared to the first three days of September. This recovery is crucial for meeting national energy demands, particularly for the power sector, which receives 87% of NCL’s supplies.
NCL Shows Strong Post-Monsoon Recovery
Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), a key subsidiary of Coal India Limited, is experiencing a substantial surge in coal production and dispatch volumes as the monsoon season wanes. The company reported a 67% increase in coal production and a 75% rise in supplies as of September 8, 2026, when compared to the average from September 1st to 3rd, 2026. This marks a significant operational rebound after challenges posed by heavy rainfall.
Key Performance Indicators and Supply Chain
NCL’s total coal production for FY 2026-27 has reached 51.43 MT, with supplies accumulating to 55 MT by September 8th. Approximately 87% of NCL’s total coal output is directed towards the power sector, highlighting its critical role in national energy security. The company’s logistics have also seen improvement, with rake loading on Indian Railways increasing to 41 rakes on September 8th, up from an average of 19 rakes per day during the first three days of the month. Major supplies are destined for power plants in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Operational Enhancements and Future Outlook
In line with Coal India Limited’s objective to maintain a robust supply chain, NCL is intensifying its efforts to maximize production and optimize evacuation. This includes leveraging improved mine accessibility, efficient movement of men and machinery, and priority restoration of internal roads to enhance coal movement to handling plants and railway sidings. Continuous dewatering has also enabled the reopening of mining areas affected by water accumulation. Furthermore, NCL has increased engagement with road-based consumers, especially power utilities, to boost tipper deployment and expedite coal lifting. Regular coordination with project teams, railway officials, and consumers is ensuring greater synchronisation across the supply chain.
Broader CIL Performance
At the Coal India Limited (CIL) level, the average daily coal production saw a 40% increase on September 8, 2026, rising to 1.91 MT from 1.36 MT during the first three days of September. This production surge is driving higher dispatches, particularly to the power sector, which experienced a 27% rise in average daily despatches, from 1.37 MT to 1.74 MT on the same comparative period. The positive trend in September suggests a favourable outlook for CIL’s production and dispatch, with coal supplies to power plants moving towards pre-monsoon levels.
Source: BSE
