Strategic Decision Analysis in Mine Planning to Achieve Coal Production Target due to Mud Accumulation: A Case Study at Pit Garuda, PT Bara Nusantara Energi

Abstract

Coal remains a vital energy resource worldwide, particularly in developing countries, due to its affordability, wide availability, and essential role in meeting growing electricity and industrial demands. This study aims to develop strategic decisions in mine planning to achieve coal production targets despite the challenges posed by mud accumulation at Pit Garuda, PT Bara Nusantara Energi (BNE). This mud, which has accumulated over several periods and now totals 981,254 m³ at Pit Garuda area as of June 2024, causes the coal area to be submerged, so the coal-getting process cannot be carried out. The method used in this research is the Kepner-Tregoe approach, which consists of four stages: Situation Appraisal (SA), Problem Analysis (PA) using the Fishbone Diagram, Decision Analysis (DA) with a Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART) method, and Potential Problem Analysis (PPA) to anticipate implementation risks. Data were collected through interviews, Focus Group Discussions, questionnaires, and secondary data from operational reports and company technical documents. Three alternatives for handling mud were evaluated: conventional loading, slurry pump to void, and slurry pump with geotube. These alternatives were analyzed using SMART based on six score attributes: preparation, additional treatment, productivity, availability of storage, safety, and environment. The results showed that the slurry pump-to-void method is the most efficient solution. Although it has the highest cost (112.32 billion rupiah), it also achieved the highest overall score (61.17 points). This method is considered effective for quickly overcoming operational challenges and aims to process 2,289,592 m³ of mud within 3.5 months. The study recommends immediately adopting the slurry pump to void alternative, supported by intensive supervision and a well-planned risk management strategy. This approach will help ensure smooth production and prevent potential issues, such as insufficient mud storage capacity, inefficient pumping, depletion of mud before the project is finished, and delays in the arrival of pumping units.