Coalface Crossroads: Singareni Unions Demand Urgent Safety Overhaul Amidst Rising Concerns

A groundswell of concern swept through the 49th Safety Tripartite Review Meeting as trade unions representing the workforce of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) issued a fervent call for immediate and comprehensive improvements in mine safety. Amidst an atmosphere of urgency, union leaders highlighted a distressing increase in accidents and fatalities, pushing for stringent measures to safeguard the lives of thousands of miners.

The unions' collective voice resonated with a clear demand for action, emphasizing that while mining is an inherently dangerous profession, many risks are preventable through updated practices and better investment.

They pointed to the alarming statistic of 17 worker deaths in the fiscal year 2023-24, underscoring the critical need for a paradigm shift in safety protocols. Their core argument revolved around the perceived lack of advanced machinery, inadequate provision of essential safety equipment, and insufficient training for the workforce, which they believe contribute significantly to these tragic incidents.

Among the most pressing demands was the formation of a high-level committee specifically tasked with reviewing and implementing enhanced safety standards across all SCCL operations.

Furthermore, the unions passionately advocated for a substantial increase in compensation for families affected by fatal accidents, proposing a hike from the current Rs. 15 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh. This was coupled with a strong plea for the strict adherence to the National Coal Wage Agreement (NCWA) provisions, ensuring a permanent job for eligible dependents – including the wife, son, daughter, or brother – of a deceased worker.

Specific operational concerns were also brought to the forefront.

Union representatives insisted on the appointment of qualified safety officers for each mine, stressing that specialized expertise is crucial for effective risk management. They also voiced strong opposition to the outsourcing of mining operations in key areas such as JVR Open Cast 1&2, VK 7 Open Cast, and Rompedu Open Cast, arguing that such practices often compromise safety standards and worker welfare.

Responding to the unions' impassioned appeals, the SCCL management outlined its ongoing efforts and commitment to worker safety.

Officials highlighted initiatives already underway, including the recruitment of 200 assistant safety officers and the procurement of advanced machinery aimed at modernizing operations and reducing hazards. The management reaffirmed its dedication to strictly adhering to all safety regulations and implementing preventive measures to minimize accidents.

Adding a broader perspective, the Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS) acknowledged the inherent risks associated with mining but praised SCCL for maintaining a safety record that is, comparatively, better than the national average for the mining sector.

However, the DGMS also reiterated the universal importance of robust safety measures and continuous vigilance for all mining companies, reinforcing the message that constant improvement is vital in an industry where human lives are at stake.

The 49th Safety Tripartite Review Meeting concluded with a clear understanding that while progress has been made, the journey towards absolute mine safety is ongoing.

The strong demands from the trade unions serve as a powerful reminder of the human cost of mining and the imperative for all stakeholders – management, unions, and regulatory bodies – to collaborate tirelessly in creating a safer working environment for every miner.