26-06-2025
Lloyds Metals gets environmental clearance to expand iron ore mining capacity to 55 MTPA
By Aman Shukla Published on June 26, 2025, 08:13 IST
Lloyds Metals & Energy Limited (LMEL) has achieved a major breakthrough with the receipt of Environmental Clearance to expand its iron ore mining capacity to 55 million tonnes per annum. This marks a historic moment not just for the company but also for India's mineral and steel industry, as LMEL's project now becomes the country's largest iron ore mine.
This expansion is expected to transform the steel landscape of Gadchiroli, where steel production is gaining momentum. LMEL's mine will serve as a critical source of raw material for these emerging industries. In the initial phase, the company will mine up to 26 MTPA of Hematite ore, and gradually ramp up to 55 MTPA including 45 MTPA of Banded Hematite Quartzite (BHQ). With time, direct sales ore will be replaced by high-grade beneficiated ore as LMEL's processing facilities come online.
A standout feature of this development is the company's strong commitment to sustainability. The mine will incorporate electric machinery, battery-operated equipment, LNG vehicles, and renewable energy solutions, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly mining operations.
LMEL is also building one of the world's largest iron ore beneficiation complexes at Hedri. The pilot plant has already shown promising results, producing over 66% iron content with excellent yield. The final concentrate will serve as premium feed material for pellets and sinters, ensuring top-quality and low-emission steel production.
This project gives LMEL a strategic edge by ensuring cost-effective, in-house iron ore supply for its steel and pellet operations. With improved cost structures and a sharp focus on forward integration, the company is now positioned to become one of India's most efficient and competitive steel producers. The expanded operations will commence once the final Consent to Operate is received from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board.
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Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at
