(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
The Annual Coal Mine Safety Fortnight 2024 was inaugurated at the SECL Headquarters on November 18, 2024, with the theme of safety and zero accidents in coal mines. The event was marked by the hoisting of the safety flag by Dr. Prem Sagar Mishra, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of SECL, in the presence of several senior officials, including Director (Personnel) Biranchi Das,
Director Technical (Operations) SN Kapri, Director Technical (Planning/Projects) Franklin Jaikumar, Chief Vigilance Officer Himanshu Jain, and various other department heads and employees.

In his address, CMD Dr. Prem Sagar Mishra emphasized the importance of collective efforts to achieve the goal of zero accidents in coal mining. He quoted the mantra ““मा मृयस्यः मा जहिः, शक्यते च मृत्युम अव्लुप्तये” (do not kill, do not die, and if possible, eliminate death itself), urging everyone to be vigilant and responsible in ensuring the safety of themselves and their colleagues.

The event also featured a tribute to deceased workers, with a two-minute silence observed in their honor. The Chief Guest, along with other dignitaries, also garlanded the martyr’s memorial and the miner’s statue as a mark of respect.

Director (Personnel) Biranchi Das highlighted the ongoing safety missions and the continuous efforts required to foster a safety culture at SECL. He expressed confidence that these initiatives would significantly reduce the accident rate. Director Technical (Planning/Projects) Franklin Jaikumar underscored the need for continuous awareness efforts to achieve the zero-accident goal.

Chief Vigilance Officer Himanshu Jain remarked that the Safety Fortnight is a significant occasion to reinforce the company’s commitment to safety, recognizing the contributions of employees and setting new standards for safety in the future.

The program also included the release of the “Suraksha se Samridhi Booklet,” which emphasizes safety practices, and a safety play staged by the Jamuna Kotma area team, which delivered an important message about adhering to safety protocols while working in the mines.

The event concluded with a safety oath, taken by all present, and a call to continuously work towards creating a safe working environment for all. The safety report and welcome address were presented by Mr. GP Sharma, General Manager (Security & Rescue). Shaikh Zakir Hussain, Chief Manager, performed the role of the announcer for the event.