NEYVELI

Neyveli is a town located about 55 km east of Cuddalore in the South Arcot district of Tamil Nadu. During the construction of irrigation wells occurrence of lignite deposits at shallow depths was noticed in Neyveli area.When systematic geological investigations were taken up in the area, occurrence of lignite over an area of 260 sq.km. with reserves of 2100 million tones discovered. Lignite is a brown coal relatively with low carbon content and high moisture content when compared to coal. Lignite beds occur at depths of 55 to 76 meters. Mining is done by open cast method. The rock layers above the lignite bed are dug out by large excavators and scattered at a distant place. The entire operation of mining of lignite is fully mechanised. Since the bed of coal occur under water numerous pumpsets are used to pump out the water to enable mining. The pumped out water is used by the power station, as domestic water supply for the township and for other purpose. In 1961 production of lignite..

Also known as: Neyveli Lignite Corporation, www.neyveli.net