Boosting Coal Transport: Ministers Drive Silo Loading Efficiency

Ministers G Kishan Reddy and Ashwini Vaishnaw are enhancing coal logistics with silo loading, increasing efficiency, reducing complaints, and maintaining energy security. The adaptation of silos has grown, reflecting on their commitment to secure reliable coal supplies amidst weather challenges.

In a bid to improve coal logistics and transportation efficiency, Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw convened a meeting on Tuesday.

The spotlight of the discussion was accelerating silo loading infrastructure, a system that significantly improves the quality and speed of coal evacuation. The benefits of silo loading, as mentioned, include uniform coal sizing, elimination of boulder-related complaints from power plants, reduced wagon damage, and operations that remain consistent regardless of adverse weather conditions.

According to a Railway Ministry statement, the share of coal loaded through silos surged from 18.8% in 2022–23 to 29% in 2025–26, marking a sustained improvement in logistics. The coal stockpiles at thermal power plants have climbed to a record 61.3 million tonnes, sufficient for a 25-day supply, fortifying energy security amid various climatic challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)