Elga Coalfield Sets Historic Record for Coal Shipments

Russia's Elga coal mine smashes Soviet-era production record in 2026

YAKUTIA.INFO. In April 2026, the Elga coal deposit shipped 3.335 million tons of coking coal concentrate to Far Eastern ports—a record for a single mining operation (either a mine or open-pit) in Russia's entire history, including the Soviet era. This was announced to Yakutia.Info by the press service of Elga Coal Complex LLC.

The monthly volume achieved—equivalent to 40 million tons annually—is the result of large-scale investments in mining and transport infrastructure made since 2020, when the deposit came under new ownership. Over five years, production has surged eightfold, from 4 million tons in 2020 to 35.1 million tons by the end of 2025.

"These record figures are a natural outcome of strategic investment decisions and the dedicated efforts of every employee. In a short time, we have built a one-of-a-kind industrial complex, encompassing mining facilities, the Pacific Railway, a port terminal, an airport, and other critical infrastructure. The Elga project has become a flagship for Russia's coal industry," said Alexander Isayev, CEO of Elga Coal Complex.

A key driver of growth was the modernization of the Elga–Ulak rail line, which increased its capacity from 12 to 30 million tons. Additionally, in 2025, the company commissioned the Pacific Railway—a new line built by Elga connecting the deposit to a newly constructed port on the Sea of Okhotsk coast. According to the company, the Pacific Railway has become the Far East's third major rail artery, alongside the Trans-Siberian and Baikal-Amur Mainlines. Once the second track is completed, its capacity will reach 40 million tons of coal per year.

To sustain current production levels, the company has procured high-performance mining equipment and built and equipped 11 processing plants. With a workforce exceeding 15,000, modern rotational camps, social and utility facilities, a medical center, and its own airport have been constructed for employees.

Located in southern Yakutia, the Elga deposit is Russia's largest coking coal field, with reserves of 2.2 billion tons. The premium-quality raw material—low in nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur—is primarily export-oriented.