International Journal of Contemporary Research In Multidisciplinary, 2026;5(2):12-15
Assessment of Mine Ventilation Efficiency and Gas Control Practice in Underground Coal Mines
Author Name: Somnath Kumar Rishi; Rohit Kumar Bharti; Sourav Kumar Bauri; Deepak Kumar Choudhary; Chandan Kumar; Himanshu Tiwary; Dinesh Kumar Gupta; Rakesh Kumar;
Abstract
Underground coal mines are highly susceptible to methane accumulation, oxygen deficiency, and the presence of toxic gases, making efficient mine ventilation and gas control essential for ensuring operational safety and regulatory compliance. This study presents a comprehensive assessment of mine ventilation efficiency and gas control practices in underground coal mines by evaluating the performance of ventilation networks and the effectiveness of gas monitoring systems under varying mining conditions.
The primary objectives of this research are to evaluate the adequacy of airflow distribution, analyse ventilation parameters such as air quantity, air velocity, pressure differentials, and ventilation resistance, assess methane concentration and gas emission characteristics, and examine the effectiveness of existing gas control measures, including methane drainage, auxiliary ventilation, and continuous gas monitoring. The study also aims to identify factors affecting ventilation efficiency and propose measures to improve mine safety and operational performance.
The research methodology combines field measurements, ventilation surveys, gas monitoring, and analytical evaluation. Airflow parameters are measured using calibrated anemometers, while methane and other gas concentrations are monitored using portable and fixed gas detectors. Ventilation network performance is assessed through pressure measurements, leakage analysis, and fan performance evaluation. The collected data are analysed using statistical methods and compared with applicable national and international mining safety standards to determine the effectiveness of the ventilation system and gas control practices.
The expected outcomes include the identification of ventilation deficiencies, high-risk gas accumulation zones, and opportunities for improving airflow distribution and methane management. The study recommends optimizing ventilation network design, minimizing air leakage, implementing real-time gas monitoring systems, enhancing preventive maintenance, and adopting advanced ventilation modeling techniques. The findings are expected to contribute to improved mine safety, reduced explosion risk, enhanced worker health, and more efficient underground coal mine operations.
Keywords
India, coal mining, ventilation, mine safety, DGMS, risk factors.