Coal India Ltd (CIL) has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Ltd to develop and upgrade the rail infrastructure of the coal giant and its subsidiaries. The agreement was signed in Kolkata on 5 June 2025, signalling a strategic collaboration to improve coal transportation networks.

The Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation is a joint venture formed by 11 major ports under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, which hold 90 per cent equity, and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) under the Ministry of Railways, which holds 10 per cent equity. The joint venture aims to provide efficient rail evacuation systems for major ports and enhance their capacity and throughput.

Coal India accounts for more than 80 per cent of India’s domestic coal production. In the financial year 2024–25, CIL produced 781.1 million tonnes (MT) of coal, which was nearly seven per cent below its annual target of 838 MT.

Looking ahead, Coal India has set ambitious targets for the financial year 2025–26, aiming to achieve a production volume of 875 MT and an offtake of 900 MT. The MoU with Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation is expected to play a vital role in supporting these goals by strengthening the company’s rail logistics and transportation infrastructure.