Context: Recently, Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) was inaugurated an internet-based platform called ‘VIHANGAM’ integrated with a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS).

About VIHANGAM

• It is an internet-based platform integrated with RPAS.
• In addition to VIHANGAM, the system consists of a Ground Control Station (GCS), internet lease line of 40 Mbps.
• The system enables real-time transmission of aerial video of mining activities from mines to internet platform which can be accessed through VIHANGAM portal by authorized personnel only having ID and password.
• It has been deployed at two opencast mines of MCL namely Bhubaneswari and Lingaraj initially on trial basis.

About Technology in Coal Mining

• The Ministry of Coal has launched Unlocking Transparency by Third Party Assessment of Mined Coal(UTTAM) Application for coal quality monitoring.
• Online Coal Clearances System to provide a single window access to its investors to submit online applications for all the permissions / clearances and approvals granted by Ministry of Coal.
• The Saral Eindhan Vitaran Application (Seva), a mobile app. developed by Coal India Ltd, would lead to rationalisation of coal linkages and reduction in power prices, Grahak Sadak Koyla Vitaran App, to achieve transparency in despatch operations and keeps track of all the activities from issuance of Sale Order to physical delivery of coal by road.
• PARIVESH application for online submission and monitoring of the proposals for seeking Environment, Forest, Wildlife and Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ) Clearances from Central, State and district level authorities.