Russia's Mechel OAO has suspended work at its New-Olzherasskaya underground mine due to coal self-heating.

Mechel said coal self-heating occurred at the production area of long wall face No 21-1-7 of the underground mine in the middle of last month.

The production area is isolated and measures are being taken to prevent possible negative consequences of the accident, Mechel said.

The company said suspension of production will not affect coal deliveries due to stockpiled coal at the mine warehouse.

New-Olzherasskaya Underground mine was commissioned on 29 September 2006.

Source:Mining-Technology