4— SOME PROBLEMS IN NATAL COAL-MINING. 

 By W. J. Heslop, M.I.M.E., F.G.S. 



[Abstract.] 



Occurrence of vertical and horizontal intrusion of dolerite is a 

 marked feature ; the influence of these has altered fully three-fourths 

 of the Xatal coal from bituminous to semi-anthracitic ; vertical dyke 

 influence generally local, horizontal dyke influence extensive. 



Demand for semi-anthracitic coal small, since ash-contents higher 

 than Welsh anthracite. 



Natal coal of the bituminous character is of good quality, and 

 has a large demand. 



Immediately after the late war, native labour was scarce. 

 Colliery owners were compelled to adopt mechanical coalgetters, and 

 many types were tried : as the coal is mainly worked with bud and 

 pillar system, the percussive type of coalgetter is most in favour, 

 but at one or two collieries, chain cutting and rotary bar machines 

 are used. 



The author considers that the proportion of coal mining by 

 mechanical coali^jetters is higher than in any other country. 



Surface handling of the coal calls for first-class plants for 

 screening, sorting and washing the smaller grades. 



Labour emploj-ed is European as supervisors, but natives and 

 imported Indian coolies for the ordinary unskilled work. 



A trial is being made at one colliery of establishing a native 

 village near the mine, so that the workers may have their families near 

 them ; it is hoped thereby to secure continuous work from the 

 " bovs," as natives are usually called. 



