Bravus Mining & Resources, an Australian mining entity of Adani Group, has struck coal in the much controversial Charmichael project in Queensland.
Bravus Mining and Resources CEO David Boshoff noted that it was an exciting day for the over 2,600 people on the Project, which has been in the making for over a decade.
As per the company, India will be a foundation customer for the Carmichael mine and is the fourth largest global user of electricity and the source of the biggest growth in global energy demand.
“Nearly two years ago today, we received our final approvals to develop the Carmichael mine and rail project. We have faced many hurdles along the way, but thanks to the hard work and perseverance of our team, we have now reached the coal seams,” the CEO said.
Boshoff said Bravus was on track to export first coal as promised in 2021.
“We’re on track to export first coal this year, and despite reaching this significant milestone, we will not take our eyes off our larger goal of getting coal to market,” he said.
Taking to Twitter, Gautam Adani, Chairman of Adani Group, said: “Proud of my tenacious team who mined Carmichael’s ‘first coal’ in the face of heavy odds. There couldn’t be a better birthday gift than being able to strengthen our nation’s energy security and provide affordable power to India’s millions. Thank you, Queensland and Australia.”
It is to be noted that the mine has been at the centre of several protests and campaigns by environmentalists.