The Government of Pakistan was committed to the mining and use of indigenous fuel to fire large scale power generation plants, of which the first of 300 MW is to be built near Hyderabad. The Lakhra lignite field close by is to be developed for this purpose. The total annual lignite production from Lakhra is currently all from private mines and is reported to be about 500,000 tons per year. The fuel required for a 30 MW power station would be of the order of 1.4 million tons. The following thoughts attempt to list some of the aspects for consideration before mechanization is undertaken, so that the development of the Lakhra area can be soundly planned on a firm economic base. (1) Objectives of mechanization (a) profitability (b) advantages (c) disadvantages (d) concentration of operations (e) safety (2) The change in philosophy (a) management style (3) The requirements of mechanization (a) size and shape of reserves (b) variable seam section. (4) Reduction of sulphur or dirt content (a) compatibility of equipment (b) transportation (5) Labour/Supervisory capabilities (6) Training and operational assistance (a) the learning period (7) Interim steps in mechanization (8) Examples of failure of mechanization projects (9) Benefits of developing the Lakhra area.