Women set to take the wheel of 100-tonne coal dumpers at SCCL mines
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has made history by hiring women as operators of 100-tonne coal dumpers in its opencast mines. This significant step follows the company's earlier efforts to recruit women for underground mining roles, aiming to enhance female participation in a traditionally male-dominated and physically demanding industry. Thirteen women have successfully completed a specialized training program at the Telangana Institute of Driving Education and Skills, where they learned to operate heavy vehicles essential for coal transportation. After a month of rigorous training, they received their heavy vehicle driving licenses, a prerequisite for handling the massive dumpers that transport coal from quarries to dispatch points. The recruitment process, which began in September 2025, included physical fitness tests and driving assessments to ensure all candidates met the demanding requirements of the role. Many of the successful applicants were motivated by personal interest and determination, with some coming from families already associated with SCCL. One recruit, Sirisha Maduranayagam, expressed her passion for operating earthmovers, highlighting the importance of breaking gender barriers in the industry. As these women prepare to take on their new roles, they will undergo additional internal training and evaluations, ensuring they are fully equipped to navigate the challenging terrain of the opencast mines. This initiative not only empowers women but also sets a precedent for inclusivity in sectors that require physical strength and technical skill.
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