Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) has appointed Harish Duhan as its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) on an additional charge on Saturday. He is currently serving as CMD of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) and has been entrusted with the additional charge of WCL CMD.

The additional responsibility will be effective from February 1 for an initial period of three months, or until further orders, according to officials.

Harish Duhan brings over 35 years of experience in the coal mining sector. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering from Nagpur University, along with a First Class Mine Manager’s Certificate and a postgraduate diploma in management. He began his professional career with WCL in 1989, making his return to the company in a leadership role particularly significant.

During his career, Duhan has held several key positions across Coal India subsidiaries. He has served as Director (Technical–Operations) at Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) and worked with Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) as Area General Manager at the Nigahi Project and General Manager in the Corporate Project Planning Department.

He is widely recognised for his work in environmentally sustainable first-mile connectivity projects, digitisation initiatives, and the development of solar power projects within the coal sector. Officials said his leadership is expected to support WCL’s focus on operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

Also Read | PESB Recommends Kota Ravi as CMD of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

Upon his arrival at WCL headquarters in Nagpur, Duhan was welcomed by the company’s Board of Directors, the Chief Vigilance Officer, and senior officials. He later chaired a review meeting to assess coal production, productivity, and operational performance.

The additional charge arrangement is expected to ensure continuity in leadership at WCL while strengthening coordination across Coal India subsidiaries.