Indian Coalfields Research Articles

Enhancing Thin Coal Seam Detection in Eastern Indian Coalfields Using ICWT-Decon-Based Seismic Attributes and Acoustic Impedance Inversion

A high-resolution seismic survey (HRSS) is often used in coal exploration to bridge the data gap between two consecutive boreholes and avoid ambiguity in geological interpretation. The application of high-resolution seismic surveys in the Indian context is challenging as the delineation of thin non-coal layers within the coal layer requires a very high seismic data resolution. However, conventional seismic processing techniques fail to resolve thin coal/non-coal layers and faults, which is crucial for the precise estimation of coal resources and mine economics. To address these issues, we applied the inverse continuous wavelet transform deconvolution (ICWT-Decon) technique to post-stack depth-migrated seismic sections. We examined the feasibility of the ICWT-Decon technique in both a synthetic post-stack depth-migrated model and 2D/3D seismic data from the North Karanpura and Talcher Coalfields in Eastern India. The results offered enhanced seismic sections, attributes (similarity and sweetness), and acoustic inversion that aided in the precise positioning of faults and the delineation of a thin non-coal layer of 4.68 m within a 16.7 m coal seam at an approximate depth of 450 m to 550 m. This helped in the refinement of the resource estimation from 74.96 MT before applying ICWT-Decon to 55.92 MT afterward. Overall, the results of the study showed enhancements in the seismic data resolution, the better output of seismic attributes, and acoustic inversion, which could enable more precise lithological and structural interpretation.

Comprehensive geospatial mapping and monitoring of an eastern coalfield in India

Geospatial mapping and monitoring are crucial for designing slopes in opencast mining, as failure can result in significant economic and life loss. To overcome these issues, the present investigation evaluated the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) generated using high resolution Cartosat-1 satellite imagery. Simultaneously, mapping of shaded relief map, aspect map and slope maps was done for the monitoring of Shatabdi opencast coal mine of Jharia region, an eastern coalfield region of India. Shaded relief map was categorized in to low, moderate and high categories and maximum area was covered by moderate to high shades. The constructed aspect map encompasses the range between 0 and 360 degrees of direction, with categorization and representation through distinct colors. The slope map was classified into various categories based on degrees of slope, including very gentle, gentle, moderate, moderately steep, steep, and very steep slopes. The maps were ground validated using Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) collected data points by field visit in the region. For opencast mines to operate safely and profitably, slope stability in different stages of mining must be mapped and monitored. The study synthesizes data from diverse sources, highlighting the role of geospatial technology in addressing multiple research gaps within the mining industries prior to leveraging Cartosat-1 satellite data. Slope mapping and monitoring of coalfield regions are crucial to reducing construction costs, mitigation of natural hazard risks like flooding and landslides, and effective conservation of natural resources such as soils, vegetation, and water systems. The present study benefits policymakers, environmental planners and government in formulating policies to ensure safety, reliability, and enhance the economic growth of workers and the country.

Petrology and association of rare earth elements in magmatically altered high-ash coal of Indian origin

The extraction of valuables from waste has gained momentum. Thermal influence alters both the organic and inorganic components of coal. Insufficient knowledge on the association of rare earth elements (REEs) with the parent matrix of thermally altered high-ash coals (63% ash) limits the potential for such coals being utilized for isolation of valuables. In this study, we analyzed the distribution and occurrence modes of REEs within a magmatically altered high-ash coal via nine-step sequential extraction, combining Tessier and BCR methods. The total concentration of REEs in the coal sample, on whole coal basis, was found to be 820 ppm, which is significantly higher than the world average. Major mineral oxides were deduced to be those of Si, Fe, Al, Ca, Mg, and Ti. Sequential extraction confirmed that about 66% of HREE and 25% of LREE were included in the residual fraction. LREEs were concluded to be primarily in ionic form, whereas HREEs were speculated to be associated with the TiO2 phase. XRD analyses showed that thermal alteration affected the dolomite phase specifically, which selectively got removed where carbonate-bound elements were assessed. Petrographic analysis supported the magmatic influence and demonstrated the presence of mosaic structures and pores containing unfused vitrinite, with a reflectance value of 3.6. To summarize, the present study pertaining to delineation of association of valuables in high-ash heat-altered coals from an Eastern coalfield in India can potentially open up new avenues for utilizing such coals, which are otherwise considered waste.

Mineralogical and geochemical characterization of coal debris from major coal fields in India: Implications on respirable dust hazards

Coal mining activities have major impact on the surrounding regions through flying coal dust particles. In this study, we investigate the differences in mineralogy and geochemistry between the deposited coal dust and the respirable fractions of coal dust samples collected from the coal mining regions of Jharia and Raniganj coalfields in India. The coal dust samples were investigated in detail through various analytical techniques including FE-SEM, TGA, and particle size analyzer. The proximate analysis of the coal dust indicated that the ash content is 75%, moisture 0.5%, volatile matter 8.4%, and fixed carbon 16% in the Jharia coal fields, while the respective values of Raniganj coal values are 68.3%, 2.8%, 14.6%, and 14.2%. The average carbon content in the Raniganj coal dust particles is higher than that of Jharia (22.62 vs. 21.50%) and suggest that the coal dust particles were transported from the coal mining areas. The scanning electron microscopy images suggest that the coal dust samples have spherical and irregular morphologies. The carbon and sulphur in these samples were possibly derived from the organic matter of the coal materials, which were transported by air as dust particles. The particle size distribution of the coal dust samples revealed that 75–95% of these by volume are in the fraction of <600 μm. It can be inferred that the relatively fine particles of the coal dust samples contained 70% of ash comprising of mostly silica and clay as maximum respirable dust, which is hazardous to both human life and the environment. Our study provides insights into the air pollution and health risks around mining areas.

Application of suitable methodology for control of coal fire according to its magnitude in hot strata blast-holes–an approach

ABSTRACT Coal mine fire is a common phenomenon in Indian coalfields and great concerned on safety of the person engaged in mining operations. In opencast coal mine, particularly where the extraction of previously developed coal pillars has been carried out by opencast mining method, chances of spontaneous fire became more frequent and complicated. In such prevailing situations deep holes charging and blasting operation in hot strata may create every possibility to premature detonation of explosives, which leads to fatalities. Henceforth, it is imperative to use appropriate methodology to combat the fires and make it possible for wining of coal safely. This paper highlighted a methodology adopted for safe and effective management of fire by using two different chemical additives admixed with water to bring down temperature under safe workable limit in short duration of time and also make it suitable for charging and blasting operation in hot deep drill holes. On the basis of the magnitude of fires 0.5 to1.0% concentrations of MgCl2 and CaCl2 mixed with water were applied for cooling of high temperature fire in coal bench, overburden as well as hot blast holes with encouraging results in supressing of the flames and rapid cooling of hot strata.

Electrical resistivity tomography technique coupled with numerical modelling: A case study for stability analysis

AbstractCavity due to underground old mine workings is one of the major threats to the coal mines and the overlying subsurface and surface properties, which need to be protected. The detection of old mine workings and stability assessment of overlying strata are common problems in most of the Indian coalfields. Several coal mines in India are loss‐making, mainly due to different types of mine hazards. Khandra mine is one such mine at Raniganj Coalfield, Eastern Coalfields Ltd., a subsidiary of Coal India Limited. In the present study, 2‐dimensional and 3‐dimensional electrical resistivity tomography were carried out for detailed subsurface characterization. It supports delineating underground workings, including the nature of voids/cavities (air or water‐filled). Excessive distortions were reported in electrical resistivity tomography application, especially at the near‐surface, owing to large resistivity variations. Refinement of the model by half‐unit electrode spacing was attempted here to reduce the distortions with minimum possible absolute errors. 3‐Dimensional resistivity volumetric model was also developed with the help of five electrical resistivity tomography parallel profiles for better apprehension of the subsurface. Analysis provided important inputs for stability analysis using 3‐dimensional numerical modelling. The physico‐mechanical properties of the overlying strata, pre‐excavation in situ stresses, boundary conditions and the mine geometry simulation were incorporated for understanding the stability analysis. Stability analysis was carried out using the finite difference technique. The analysis of 3‐dimensional numerical modelling indicated that two distinct layers comprising (i) laterite/part of the course to medium‐grained sandstone and (ii) developed galleries of R‐IX seam exhibited a very low safety factor below 1.0, indicating potholing/subsidence susceptibility. The other three layers comprising parts of fine‐grained sandstone exhibited a relatively higher safety factor of around 2.0, indicating moderately stable zones, but not on a long‐term basis. Parts of Siduli stream embankments need suitable retaining walls to avoid water inundation for the stability of the area.

An Assessment on Quality of Life and Happiness Indices of Project Affected People in Indian Coalfields

Coal deposits are generally found in either riverine and/or beneath forest area. The coerced displacement of project-affected people (PAPs) for coal mining endangers the in situ conservation of their life/livelihood. It accounts for a heavy price against the mineral value mostly harvested by distant stakeholders. A study on quality of life (QoL) enroute happiness indices of PAPs is undertaken with reference to CSR/resettlement and rehabilitation initiatives undertaken by mining companies in coalfields of Jharkhand. This study aims to analyze elements influencing quality of life and happiness indices such as job/income opportunity, housing affordability, health security, infrastructure, social relations, environment sustainability, inclusivity, equity and diversity. Data were collected directly from PAPs using a questionnaire survey method and almost 501 responses received to assist in development of the model. Multivariate statistical analysis has been used with application of structural equation modeling methodology for data analysis. The result shows vital relations among the constructs introduced based on human, social, natural, physical and economical concerns. The findings also indicate inadequate resettlement and rehabilitation initiatives undertaken by project proponents towards restoring life quality. Thus, the conceptual framework customized to mining area is developed and validated for rendering a qualitative life-ecosystems to the PAPs.

Modeling and Forecasting of Coal Bed Methane Reservoir from Raniganj Coalfield, India

Demand for a cleaner source of energy is increasing in India. In the search for alternate energy sources, coal bed methane gas receives considerable attention for its potential as a good energy source. During the coalification process, methane gas is captured in the coal seams and later released during coal mining operations. Coal bed methane separation is crucial for both economic benefit and methane emission reduction. The methane production from seams is an efficient way to reduce greenhouse emissions and provide a safe mining operation environment. In India, the production of coal bed methane on a commercial scale has been recently observed. In the present paper, an attempt is made to understand and establish a 3-D excavation of coal bed methane from reservoir simulation (COMET3) for Gondwana coal seams in the Sitarampur block of the Raniganj coalfield in India. The simulation study was carried out for a period of 25 years for the recovery of methane from the reservoir. It is observed from the simulation study that 372 million cubic meters CO2 equivalent greenhouse gas emissions can be prevented by the extraction of methane with space and time. The fracture gas concentration increases with time, and it is observed that fractures are fully saturated with gas in 3000 days.

A Numerical Modelling Approach to Find the Stability of RIB and Snook in Mechanised Depillaring Panel — A Case Study of Kurja Mine

Depillaring by conventional techniques created many irregular shaped pillars, mainly located at shallow depths in different coalfields of India. Continuous Miner Technology (CMT) has been introduced to extract these coal pillars scientifically with safety and productivity with greater depth. Leaving a proper sized rib or snook is a legal requirement as it decides the efficiency and safety of the pillar. However, CMT of square/rectangular shaped pillars created irregular shaped rib and snook. With the conventional empirical formula it is difficult to estimate the strength of such ribs or snooks. These ribs or snooks should be of sufficient size to protect the adjacent slicing operation and junction as well as they should fail in a controlled manner when machines shift inside the extraction. Field studies of different mines found several factors affecting the design of rib or snook. They are various types of induced stress, geological disturbances, manner of extraction etc. Proper assessment of the performance of different sizes and shapes of ribs and snooks in the field is complex due to the problematic underground mining environment for depillaring. For successful operation of the CMT required to study every depending parameter scientifically. Therefore, a numerical model is conducted to estimate the factor of safety of rib and snook to calculate the rib and snook stability. Results of field and simulation studies are presented and discussed in this paper to determine the rib’s stability in the continuous miner panel to create a safe environment for the men and machines.

Artificial Intelligence Model for Prediction of Local and Main FALL in caving Panel of Bord and Pillar Method of Mining

Depillaring with caving method of mining is a common practice in Indian coalfields and so is the occurrence of fall in goaf area, which can be considered as a boon in disguise as it allows wining of coal from large reserves but this becomes a curse just because of its unpredicted occurrence. Various empirical and statistical models are developed after idealization of several complicated mechanisms but they are not able to predict roof fall accurately especially in caving panels. Therefore, a new approach based on Artificial Intelligence is used to predict the sequence of local and main fall in caving panel taking into account a host of geotechnical and mining parameters of the mine. Mathematical equations and hidden calculations of artificial neural networks are known to have the capability of learning and analyzing records endlessly. Two different models have been deployed after optimal hyper parameter optimization to predict the occurrence of fall and to characterize the nature of fall (local or main) with considerable and reliable accuracy.

A comparative kinetic study between TGA & DSC techniques using model-free and model-based analyses to assess spontaneous combustion propensity of Indian coals

Kinetic study of coal was carried out using simultaneous thermal analysis (STA) technique to assess the spontaneous combustion propensity of coal samples collected from various Indian coalfields having both fiery and non-fiery seams. The kinetic parameters were estimated by using both model-free and model-based analysis for both TGA & DSC data. The model-based method comprises four different consecutive reaction steps, viz. A→B→C→D→E for the spontaneous combustion process and the second reaction step (B→C) were used for this investigation. Chemometric analysis was applied to know the relation between the proximate analysis and activation energy of the samples using model-free and model-based techniques. The activation energy for the second reaction step of the model-based method for both TGA and DSC data showed a good relationship with the standard methods i.e., crossing point temperature (XPT) and Tgign of the samples. It indicates that the activation energy values at the oxidation stage (2nd stage) play a significant role in the spontaneous combustion propensity of coal. The study also reveals that the model-based analysis provided better results in comparison to model-free analysis to assess the spontaneous combustion propensity of coal.

Importance of Fracturing Hard and Massive Overlying Strata for Complete Extraction of Thick Coal Seam – Case Studies

Abstract Engineering efforts need to be organized as per the rock mechanic conditions of the site for efficient underground extraction of a thick coal seam. Geo-mining conditions of Indian coalfields have favoured development of thick coal seams on Bord and Pillar (B&amp;P) method, where single lift depillaring of total thickness (SLDTT) is vital for their final extraction. Competency of heightened pillar is an important factor for uncontrolled roof-pillar interaction during caving of the hard and massive overlying strata. An increase in extraction height by underwinning of roof coal band of the thick coal seam during retreat, developed along its floor horizon, is found to be the main reason for the strength deterioration. Conducted field studies also showed that the presence of competent overlying strata caused caving after a large overhang inside the goaf varying from 6000 m2 to 12500 m2. An attempt was made to control the roof caving by a proportional increase in width of the heightened pillars and it worked well but caused the issue of resource conservation. However, another field study with SLDTT working below laminated and weak overlying strata experienced a smooth strata control condition. This fortifies the idea of strength reduction of the competent overlying strata by fracturing for a controlled strata behaviour. This paper presents the result of the field investigations to demonstrate the role of strength reduction of overlying strata for underground extraction of total thickness of a thick coal seam in single lift.

TGA/DSC study to characterise and classify coal seams conforming to susceptibility towards spontaneous combustion

Thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimeter (TGA/DSC) technique along with basic coal characteristics study is carried out for eighty coal samples of Indian coalfields, to determine spontaneous combustion propensity behaviour of coal. TGA study of coal samples indicates that there is an increase in the mass of coal samples in the temperature range 150–350 ℃, which may be due to oxygen adsorption and absorption. The correlation and principal component analysis states that the component of proximate analysis (Mad, VMd, FR, and VR) have an acceptable correlation with the TGA experiments results i.e., Tgsh and Tgign. Multiple fixed nonlinear regression analysis shows that thermogravimetry (TG) experiment results Tgign may be the best index to categorise/classify the coal as per their susceptibility towards spontaneous combustion. The authors proposed four groups of classification as per their propensity towards spontaneous combustion depending upon the moisture (Mad), volatile matter (VMd), and TG ignition temperature from differential thermogravimetric (DTG) curve (Tgign) using hierarchal clustering analysis. The coal samples of different seams from Indian coalfield may be classified into four different clusters, viz. very highly/extremely susceptible (Tgign < 260 ℃), highly susceptible (260 ℃ ≤ Tgign < 290 ℃), moderately susceptible (290 ℃ ≤ Tgign ≤ 320 ℃), and poorly susceptible (Tgign > 320 ℃). The field observations and TGA/DSC experiment results with the following statistical analysis substantiate a similar assessment.

Development of empirical model for strength estimation of irregular-shaped-heightened-rib/snook for mechanised depillaring

Issues with conventional depillaring techniques resulted in unscientific development of a number of coal seams into rectangular/square shaped pillars, mainly, located at shallow depths in different coalfields of India. Continuous miner based mechanised depillaring (MD) has been introduced to extract these coal pillars which is the main stage of production. The practise of leaving a proper sized rib/snook is a legal requirement as it decides the efficiency and safety of the MD operation. However, MD of square/rectangular shaped pillars created irregular-shaped-heightened-rib/snook. Conventional empirical formula is not capable to estimate strength of such ribs/snooks. These ribs/snooks should be of sufficient size to protect the adjacent slicing operation and junction as well as it should fail in a controlled manner when shifted inside the goaf. Field studies conducted at 39 panels of 7 different mines found a number of factors affecting the design of rib/snook. Proper assessment of performance of different sizes and shapes of ribs/snooks in field is difficult due to the complex and challenging underground mining environment of depillaring. These challenges prohibit a detailed study to be carried out in field. Therefore, parametric study on calibrated numerical model is conducted to estimate the strength of rib/snook with variation in sizes and heights of rib/snook and depth of cover. Further, an empirical relationship is developed to estimate the strength of rib/snook based on multivariate regression analysis . The values of strength estimated by the developed relationship is found to be least when compared with the popular pillar strength formulations due to effect of pillar/rib/snook spalling observed during field investigation with increase in depth of working. Results of field and simulation studies are presented and discussed in this paper for the design of irregular-shaped-heightened-rib/snook.

Assessment of hydrocarbon generation potential of coal seams from Raniganj basin, India

Coal bed methane (CBM) extraction keeps on going through innovative work. Concerns incorporate evaluating the asset, distinguishing good geologic creation zones, setting up effective recuperation plans, exhibiting progressed penetrating advancements and supporting catch and utilization of less available gas streams. Coal of Raniganj field has a unique characteristic incorporating the best non-coking coalfield in India. Proximate analysis indicate that the ash content is less than 20% and the content of volatile matter, fixed carbon and moisture are in the desired range. X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination demonstrates the presence of 48.1% C4H6O6 that is of monoclinic crystal framework and continuous expansion in diffraction band from 198 to 98 at 2θ = 17.62 and 20.0001 Angstrom representing a better coal seam and presence of aliphatic compounds. FT-IR study reveals the presence of aliphatic hydrocarbons associated with CH2 stretching at 2100.05 cm−1, aromatic C=C (1637.92 cm−1) band associated with –OH(3439.95 cm−1) stretching vibrations.

Estimation of optimum geometric configuration of mine dumps in Wardha valley coalfields in India: a case study

The Wardha valley coalfields, situated in the western part of India, contribute to more than 7% of the national coal production. The open-pit mining methods are the modes of exploitation of coal in the majority of the mines in the area. Due to the increased depth of working and higher stripping ratio, the output of waste overburden is increased. The challenges are the scarcity of the available land for dumping waste overburden geo-material safely. Optimization of the mine dump slope geometry is the only available alternative in the hands of the management in order to increase the life of the projects and continue the production of coal. This investigation specifically addresses this issue, and proposes a combination of the optimum geometric configurations of the dump slope. This work utilizes the computational power of the numerical modeling technique in order to solve a large number of alternatives and zero them down to the optimum combination. The numerical modeling is considered as a major external factor that contributes to the mine dump's instability. This work shows an 18% increase in the dumping waste material volume in the present condition. This investigation also reveals that double stage dumping is comparably better in optimizing the dump slope configuration.

Probabilistic stability analysis of failed and stable cases of coal pillars

The conventional design criterion of the safety factor for pillar stability is a deterministic approach characterised by non-random and exact values of its input parameters i.e. strength and stress. The integrity of pillars often jeopardized when some fluctuations or deviations occur in their strength and stress due to uncertainties in field conditions. To counter these unknown fluctuations or deviations, the coal pillars are designed with safety factors greater than unity and their exact values are selected based on local geomining factors. This practice does not guarantee stability against the geomining uncertainties and consequently lock-up the coal in the bigger size of the pillars. Therefore, to assess the variability in the input parameters in pillar design, this paper presents a probabilistic approach to analyse the stability of coal pillars considering the cases of stable and failed pillars in Indian coalfields. The databases of input design parameters are collected for stable and failed coal pillars from different Indian coal mines. The probabilistic distribution fittings of strengths, stresses and safety factors of stable flat, stable inclined, failed flat and failed inclined pillar cases are derived to know their means and standard deviations. The Monte Carlo Simulation and the First Order Reliability Method have been implemented to solve the limit state functions. The failure probabilities estimated for stable flat, stable inclined, failed flat and failed inclined cases are 0.29, 0.28, 0.56, and 0.99 respectively. The analysis recommends the safety factors of corresponding threshold failure probabilities of stable flat pillars as 1.61 and for stable inclined pillars as 1.41 in Indian mines with the ranges of design parameters considered in their databases. Therefore, the probabilistic stability analysis can provide an additional design criterion to select the optimum safety factor of pillars for improved recovery rates in coal mines.

An integrated study on the geochemical, geophysical and geomechanical characteristics of the organic deposits (Coal and CBM) of eastern Sohagpur coalfield, India

Coal mining, especially the underground mines are often encountered with several types of geological constraints, where massive-hard roof and trapped gas are the most serious threats leading to catastrophic (fatal) effects in form of roof falls, mine explosion and gas contamination. Thus, for enhancing the safety of underground coal mines, identification of aforesaid constraints during detailed exploration is very essential. The minable seams of Sohagpur Coalfield are often associated with rich Coal Bed Methane (CBM) content, which enhances their economical importance, but the gas content along with the presence of stable sandstone roof parallely induces challenges during their extraction. CBM also acts as an environmental hazard having twenty-one times more greenhouse effect than carbon dioxide (CO2). Therefore, the present paper attempts to investigate the depositional environment of the high-quality methane-rich sub-bituminous reserves of eastern Sohagpur Coalfield through integration of geochemical, geophysical and geomechanical analysis of the drilled boreholes along with their respective gas content. The results showed that the six major Barakar coal seams possessed nearly consistent distribution in terms of reserve distribution and chemical properties. These seams consisted of good quality reserves (Grade: G5-G8) with high heat values and organic content, and had less impurity content. These coal seams are overlain by stable roof having lower cavablity in form of thick hard medium-grained sandstone beds with moderate elasticity and strength. The seam structures showed a stable profile without any abrupt discontinuity except Bahmni-Chilpa fault in southern part of block. Some of the higher rank coal seams also contained potential CBM content. Statistical analysis was also carried out for understanding the distribution of reserve properties and monitored their interdependence using suitable fitting tools. Thus, the present study helped in summarizing different aspects related to reserve quality, roof properties and gas content for understanding the geology and working environment of coal reserves of less explored but economically important Central Indian coalfields.

Parametric study to design competent irregular-shaped remnants in mechanised depillaring

Mechanised depillaring (MD) has been proved to be a panacea for faster extraction of the developed pillars which is blocking access to deeper deposits and locking more than 3200 Mt of coal, developed by Bord and Pillar mining method in Indian coalfields. Depillaring of these square/rectangular-shaped developed pillars by continuous miner creates irregular-shaped ribs/snooks. Stability assessment of such ribs/snooks becomes a challenging task due to various issues faced in estimation of load acting upon it and their strength. Area-based approach for the design of rib/snook is found to be the most suitable criteria during MD. Field investigations supported for parametric investigation for a competent size of rib/snook with varying nature of roof and depth of cover. Taking help from previous studies to design such ribs/snooks on numerical models using FLAC3D, a parametric study is carried out using 3DEC. Strength of such ribs/snooks and load acting upon them is calculated with the help of calibrated numerical models in order to estimate their factor of safety. This paper presents a review of the previous researches and a novel numerical simulation technique for estimation of a competent size of rib/snook in a given geo-mining condition.

Assessing subsidence susceptibility to coal mining using frequency ratio, statistical index and Mamdani fuzzy models: evidence from Raniganj coalfield, India

Raniganj, an important coalfield in India, is susceptible to mining subsidence, ejection of toxicants in the environment and huge subsurface destruction. Mining with opencast method poses a great risk to the surrounding areas of this coalfield. Anthropogenic and natural activities have caused ground movement leading to subsidence in Raniganj coalfield. Existing knowledge on subsidence susceptibility to coal mining in Raniganj coalfield is scant. The study makes an attempt to analyze mining subsidence susceptibility in Raniganj coalfield using site-specific parameters. We first prepared subsidence inventory map to identify old subsidence locations and to construct the model. It was later utilized for validating the models. Fifteen site-specific parameters related to subsidence were chosen to analyze coal mining subsidence. Frequency ratio (Fr), statistical index (SI) and Mamdani fuzzy (Mf) models were utilized to assess their effectiveness in preparing susceptibility map. Findings of the study revealed very high susceptibility in the central part, high susceptibility in north-western part and moderate susceptibility in the eastern part of Raniganj coalfield. Low and very low susceptibility was found in those parts having largest area under vegetation and water bodies. The models were validated through ROC curve, seed cell area index (SCAI) and spatially agreed area approach. Mamdani fuzzy model with highest success rate (87%) and prediction accuracy (85%) was found the best fit model for analyzing mining subsidence susceptibility. The framework of the methodology will be instructive for analyzing susceptibility at different geographical locations.