The Coal project at Thar Block II is set to enter a new phase as Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) prepares to launch Phase III of its mining operations. The planned expansion is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security by increasing the use of locally produced coal and reducing dependence on imported fuels.
The announcement was made as SECMC and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL) completed seven years of commercial operations at Thar Block II. The integrated mine-mouth project achieved its Commercial Operations Date (COD) on July 10, 2019. It was developed through a partnership involving the federal government, the Sindh government, and local and international partners.
Since becoming operational, the mining project has steadily expanded its production capacity. The mine now produces 7.6 million tons of coal annually. Over the past seven years, it has supplied more than 38 million tons of indigenous Coal to support electricity generation across Pakistan.
According to company officials, the locally mined fuel has enabled Engro Powergen Thar Limited to generate more than 27,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity. This has helped reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imported energy resources while improving the country’s energy supply.
SECMC Chief Executive Officer Amir Iqbal said the company has spent more than a decade working to improve Pakistan’s energy security. He said the organization remains focused on generating affordable electricity while creating employment and economic opportunities for communities in Tharparkar.
He described Thar coal as an important national resource that can contribute to Pakistan’s long-term energy needs. According to him, the company remains committed to sustainable growth and inclusive development as it moves toward the next phase of expansion.
The upcoming Phase III project is expected to further increase Coal production from Thar Block II. Officials believe greater use of local resources will help lower the country’s dependence on imported fuels and improve energy stability.
Athar Abrar Khwaja, Chief Executive Officer of Engro Powergen Thar Limited and Engro Energy Limited, said the company has consistently remained among Pakistan’s lowest-cost electricity producers. He noted that EPTL became the country’s first independent power producer to operate using Thar coal.
He added that the company plans to continue supporting Pakistan’s long-term energy requirements through reliable electricity generation based on indigenous resources. According to him, locally produced coal remains an important part of the country’s future energy strategy.
The integrated project combines coal mining and power generation at the same location. This approach helps improve operational efficiency while reducing transportation costs for fuel supply.
The planned expansion reflects ongoing efforts to increase domestic energy production and improve energy security. Officials believe greater utilization of indigenous coal resources can support economic growth while reducing Pakistan’s reliance on imported energy products.
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As Phase III moves forward, the project is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s power sector and create additional economic opportunities in the Thar region through increased mining activity and infrastructure development.
