Kazakhstan's 2023 coal production dips 1.1% - Ministry of Industry Coal production in Kazakhstan dipped by 1.1% in 2023, totaling 112.7 million tonnes, reports the press service of the Industry Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Construction of Kazakhstan.Nearly 9 million tonnes of coal were allocated for municipal needs and the population, 65.9 million tonnes for energy generation facilities, 5.9 million tonnes for industrial enterprises, and 31.9 million tonnes for export.Kazakhstan is ranked among the top ten countries in terms of significant coal reserves, with approximately 33.6 billion tonnes distributed across 49 deposits.The coal industry in Kazakhstan plays a crucial role, accounting for approximately 70% of electricity generation. It also fully satisfies the demands for coke production and fulfills fuel requirements in the municipal sector and among the population.Presently, around 30 companies are involved in coal mining, employing approximately 32,000 people. The primary coal deposits are concentrated in Central Kazakhstan (Karaganda coal basin, Shubarkol deposit, Turgai brown coal basin) and the northeastern region (Ekibastuz, Maikuben coal basins, Karazhyra deposit).Despite challenges, the mining and coal production sectors are operating according to plan, as assessed by the committee.In 2023, Kazakhstan's coal mines under ArcelorMittal Temirtau ownership experienced several fatal accidents, leading to extended operational shutdowns. For instance, mining activities ceased for a year at the Kazakhstanskaya mine after a conveyor belt fire on August 17, resulting in five fatalities. Similarly, the Kostenko mine remains closed following a fire and subsequent explosion on October 28, 2023, which claimed the lives of 46 miners. Operations at this site will not resume until safety concerns are fully addressed. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: Interfax