Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL) have celebrated seven years of successful commercial operations at Thar Block II, a milestone that has significantly reduced Pakistan's reliance on imported fuel while establishing Thar coal Block II as one of the country's most affordable indigenous energy resources.
Project Background and Achievements
Established through a collaboration between the Government of Pakistan, the Government of Sindh, and local and international partners, the integrated mine-mouth project achieved its Commercial Operations Date (COD) on July 10, 2019. Since then, the Thar Block II mine has expanded to a production capacity of 7.6 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) and supplied more than 38 million tonnes of indigenous coal, enabling EPTL to generate over 27,000 GWh of affordable electricity since inception.
Phase III Expansion Plans
SECMC is also preparing for its Phase III mine expansion, extending the project's role in unlocking Thar coal as a national energy asset. According to Amir Iqbal, CEO of SECMC, 'For over a decade, our purpose has been to strengthen Pakistan's energy security by delivering affordable electricity while creating lasting opportunities for the people of Thar through better healthcare, education, livelihoods, and women's empowerment. As we prepare for our Phase III expansion, our commitment to inclusive development in Tharparkar remains as strong as ever. Thar coal is a national asset, and we will continue working to unlock its full potential for Pakistan while ensuring local communities continue to benefit from this progress.'
EPTL's Contribution to Energy Security
Athar Abrar Khwaja, CEO of EPTL and Engro Energy Limited, stated, 'As Pakistan's first independent power producer operating on Thar coal, EPTL has consistently delivered affordable electricity while remaining among the top plants in the national merit order. We are proud to contribute to Pakistan's energy security through reliable, indigenous power generation and remain committed to supporting the country's long-term energy priorities.'
Social Impact Through Thar Foundation
Through Thar Foundation, the CSR arm of the Thar Block II entities, initiatives continue to drive inclusive development in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Today, Thar Foundation operates 33 school units, providing quality education to more than 5,000 students, with 40% female enrolment. In addition, more than 300 students are currently enrolled in Diploma of Associate Engineering (DAE) programmes in Mining, Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering at Government Polytechnic Institute (GPI) Mithi, with the first batch of 17 DAE Mining students having successfully completed their final year at Pindingshan College in Henan Province, China. More than 2,000 individuals have also received vocational training in trades such as IT, digital skills, solar technology, and welding.
Healthcare and Community Development
Across five healthcare facilities and three mobile health units, over 450,000 patients have been treated since inception. Through the Village Electrification Project, all villages in Thar Block II are 100% solarized, with around 3,935 households gaining access to clean solar energy.
Continued Role in National Energy Landscape
Together, SECMC and EPTL continue to play a critical role in stabilizing Pakistan's energy and economic landscape, ensuring a steady supply of affordable, indigenous electricity to power industries and communities across the country.
