Tata Steel Mining has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) to explore the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) in its mining operations. The partnership aims to provide a cleaner and greener source of fuel to the mining industry and reduce its carbon footprint.
Under the MoU, GAIL will set up infrastructure for the supply of CNG and LNG, including the installation of a mother station and daughter stations at various mining locations. Tata Steel Mining, on the other hand, will convert its heavy-duty vehicles, including trucks and mining equipment, to run on CNG and LNG.
The use of CNG and LNG will not only reduce carbon emissions but also cut down on the operational costs of Tata Steel Mining, as these fuels are more cost-effective than diesel. Additionally, this collaboration will promote the use of clean fuels and encourage the adoption of sustainable mining practices in India.
Commenting on the partnership, Rahul Purwar, Chief Executive Officer of Tata Steel Mining, said, “We are committed to sustainable mining practices, and this partnership is an important step towards reducing the carbon footprint of our operations. The use of CNG and LNG will help us reduce emissions and costs while promoting sustainable mining practices in the country.”
Similarly, Manoj Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of GAIL, said, “We are delighted to partner with Tata Steel Mining in this initiative to promote clean and sustainable energy in the mining industry. This collaboration will also help us to achieve our vision of reducing carbon emissions and promoting the use of clean energy in the country.”
The MoU between Tata Steel Mining and GAIL is part of the Indian government’s push for a cleaner and greener economy. The use of CNG and LNG is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, which will contribute to India’s efforts to meet its commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.
This collaboration also comes at a time when the Indian government is focusing on increasing the use of natural gas in the country. Natural gas is a clean fuel that has the potential to replace other fossil fuels such as coal and diesel, which are major contributors to air pollution.