Overburden in the Coal Sector

About Overburden (OB) in Coal Sector

Overburden refers to the layers of soil and rock that lie above a coal seam and must be removed to access the coal. This material is excavated during open-pit or surface mining operations.
Composition: Clay, Alluvial Sand, Sandstone, Rich Silica Content.
Utilisation Initiatives:
- Production of M-Sand: Overburden is crushed and processed to create sand. It offers a sustainable alternative to river sand.
- Backfilling: After coal extraction, overburden is used to fill mined-out areas, helping to reclaim land.
- Circular Economy: These initiatives aim to convert waste materials into valuable resources, minimising environmental footprints.

Facts

Highest Reserves Worldwide: USA, Russia, Australia, China, India
Highest Production Worldwide: China, India, Indonesia, USA, Australia.
Highest Reserves in India: Jharkhand > Odisha > Chhattisgarh > West Bengal > Madhya Pradesh.
4 types of Coal found in India: Anthracite (Highest grade), Bituminous, lignite, Peat (Lowest grade).