CIL may run out of explosives stock as production takes a hit on coronavirus fears

KOLKATA: Coal IndiaNSE 3.61 % Limited (CIL) is facing shortage of bulk explosives used for blasting topsoil to produce coal, as some manufactures have stopped production and tanker drivers are reluctant to drive owing to the fear of contracting the coronavirus infection, lack of availability of food on the way and police harassment. This can hit output hard.

There are 350-odd collieries operating at present and each receives several consignments of ammonium nitrate on a daily basis. It is volatile and cannot be stored, which is why it is delivered in specially manufactured tankers to the mines.