New Delhi, 19/12/2024: In a move to boost operational efficiency and sustainability, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has incorporated the Bogie Open Bottom Rapid Discharge Railway Wagon (BOBRN) with pneumatic door opening actuators into its coal transportation system at smelters in Jharsuguda, Odisha, and Korba, Chhattisgarh. This initiative is part of the Indian Railways’ General Purpose Wagon Investment Scheme (GPWIS).
BOBRN railway wagons are built to carry large amounts of coal between sites such as thermal power plants and ports. Their bottom unloading mechanism, which dumps coal directly into hopper pits, ensures rapid and efficient unloading, minimizing the time required for material delivery.
The world’s largest aluminum plant in Jharsuguda and the iconic BALCO smelter at Korba, both operated by Vedanta Aluminium, require a reliable and constant power supply. By introducing the BOBRN rake, Vedanta will improve the transportation of linkage coal, ensuring a smooth and efficient supply chain. Rail transportation will also help reduce production costs and optimize logistics. Moreover, by shifting from road to rail transport, Vedanta will significantly lower its carbon footprint, as railways produce less CO2 emissions per ton compared to truck transport.
Vedanta Aluminium currently operates four BOBRN captive coal rakes and plans to expand its logistics capacity by adding four more. This expansion will enhance operational efficiency and support the company’s commitment to incorporating sustainable practices.
Mr. Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer of Vedanta Aluminium, stated that the introduction of the BOBRN rake is a key milestone, improving rail efficiency, reducing turnaround times, and ensuring reliable coal transportation while lowering costs and emissions. He emphasized the company’s commitment to national sustainability and energy efficiency goals. Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO of BALCO, highlighted that the BOBRN rakes strengthen the supply chain and align with their sustainability goals, particularly their target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Vedanta Aluminium has adopted a two-pronged approach of both reducing and offsetting its carbon footprint. These include measures such as increasing the quantum of renewables in its energy mix, enhancing its manufacturing excellence to optimise resource utilization and reduce wastage, and transitioning to low-carbon energy sources such as biofuels. Its smelters have been certified by the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative’s (ASI) Performance Standards, a globally acknowledged indicator of sustainable operations.
