BEML Ltd has launched the country’s largest indigenously designed and manufactured electric rope shovel — the BRS21. This achievement underscores BEML’s engineering prowess and aligns with the Government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The state-of-the-art mining equipment was ceremoniously handed over by Shantanu Roy, Chairman and Managing Director, BEML, to B. Sairam, Chairman and Managing Director, Northern Coalfields Ltd (NCL), in the presence of P. M. Prasad, Chairman and Managing Director, Coal India Ltd (CIL), at Nigahi Mines, Singrauli. The event was attended by functional directors and senior officials from BEML, CIL, and NCL, marking a momentous occasion in the advancement of indigenous heavy mining equipment.
The BRS21 Rope Shovel represents a leap in sustainable mining practices. Fully electric and emission-free, this advanced machine is engineered for large-scale overburden removal operations in opencast coal mines. With an operating weight of 720 ton and a 21 cubic m bottom dump bucket, the BRS21 ranks among the most powerful and technologically sophisticated shovels in its category worldwide.
Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML, stated:
“This moment marks a proud milestone for the nation as we advance the Prime Minister’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The successful development of this colossal mining equipment by BEML in just 24 months speaks volumes of our engineering strength and collective resolve. It’s not just a triumph for BEML but a defining moment for India’s coal sector, ushering in a new era of sustainable and self-reliant mining solutions. I am deeply grateful to Coal India and NCL for their unwavering confidence in us and for enabling us to deliver this breakthrough for the country.”
Designed entirely in India, the BRS21 is equipped with cutting-edge features including a Siemens IGBT-based AC Drive System, real-time performance monitoring, predictive maintenance capabilities, 360-degree vision system, fatigue monitoring, centralized lubrication, and a spacious, ergonomically designed operator cabin. The shovel also boasts a dust-free machinery compartment and high-intensity LED lighting for effective night operations.
A key environmental highlight is the shovel’s zero-emission operation, contributing to an estimated reduction of 189 ton of CO₂ per year per machine, making it a crucial asset in the shift towards green mining.
Commending the development, P M Prasad, CMD, CIL, remarked:
“The launch of the BRS21 is a moment of immense pride for India’s mining sector and a significant step towards environmentally sustainable mining practices. With this remarkable achievement, we are opening a new chapter in green mining. For years, we have witnessed massive mining equipment being built overseas — today, thanks to BEML’s unwavering commitment and excellence, India stands tall with its own indigenously designed and manufactured rope shovel. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to BEML for making this vision a reality.”
The introduction of the BRS21 further positions BEML as a critical player in India’s mining ecosystem, reducing dependency on foreign OEMs and reinforcing the country’s capabilities in high-end manufacturing for core industrial sectors.