Batubara Lahat starts coal production

South Sumatra-based coal miner PT Batubara Lahat (PTBL) has started producing coal from its concession in Lahat regency, Sumatra Express reported on Saturday.

Lahat Regent H. Marunata and PTBL held a ceremony on Wednesday to mark the maiden production.

PTBL?s President Commissioner Syamsu Riedzal said the company set the target of production at 20,000 tons per month in the initial stage and the output would increase to 40,000 tons per month.

?If everything is okay, we strive to achieve a monthly production of 80,000 ? 100,000 tons per month,? he said.

Mineable coal reserve is around 6.2 million tons with calorific value 6,300 Kcal/kg and stripping ratio 1:4, he said.

The mine is located in Muaratemiang and Gunung Agung in West Merapi district within a concession area of around 500 hectares. (*)