Thar Block II: SECMC prepares for Phase III expansion

Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) is preparing for the expansion of Phase III of Thar Block II of the Tharparkar area in Sindh, reinforcing the project’s role in reducing Pakistan’s reliance on imported fuel.

The development comes as SECMC and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL) marked seven years of successful commercial operations at Thar Block II on Thursday.

Established through a collaboration between the Government of Pakistan, the Government of Sindh, and local and international partners, the integrated mine-mouth project achieved its Commercial Operations Date (COD) on July 10, 2019.

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Since then, the Thar Block II mine has expanded to a production capacity of 7.6 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and supplied more than 38 million tonnes of indigenous coal, enabling EPTL to generate over 27,000 GWh of electricity since inception.

“For over a decade, our purpose has been to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security by delivering affordable electricity while creating lasting opportunities for the people of Thar,” said Amir Iqbal, CEO of SECMC.

“As we prepare for our Phase III expansion, our commitment to inclusive development in Tharparkar remains as strong as ever,” he said, terming Thar coal as a ‘national asset’.

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“As Pakistan’s first independent power producer operating on Thar coal, EPTL has consistently delivered affordable electricity while remaining among the top plants in the national merit order,” said Athar Abrar Khwaja, CEO of EPTL and Engro Energy Limited.

“We are proud to contribute to Pakistan’s energy security through reliable, indigenous power generation and remain committed to supporting the country’s long-term energy priorities.”