Yakutia's Naldinsky coal deposit undergoes major exploration for coking reserves

Exploration has begun at the Naldinsky coal deposit in Yakutia. The project, led by JSC Central Prospecting and Geological Expedition (CPGE), aims to uncover valuable coking coal reserves. Over 14,000 metres of core drilling is now underway as part of the assessment. The Naldinsky deposit sits in the eastern Aldan-Chulman coal region, within the South Yakutia Coal Basin. It lies roughly 40 kilometres west of Chulman in the Neryungri District. CPGE has conducted fieldwork at the site since 2025.

The project focuses on identifying scarce coking coals, particularly grades K (coking) and OS (lean-caking). Early estimates suggest reserves of 50 million tons (C1 category) and 250 million tons (C2 category). Technical plans also include evaluating 250 million tons of inferred resources (P1) and 100 million tons of prospective resources (P2). Laboratory tests throughout 2026 will determine the coal’s quality. Workable seams must be at least 0.7 metres thick, with ash content below 45%. The entire study is set to finish by December 2027.

The findings will clarify the deposit’s potential for high-value coking coal. If confirmed, the reserves could support future mining operations in the region. The project’s completion is expected to provide detailed resource data by late 2027.