Breakdown in NTPC-Kaniha plant leads disruption of power to south

Talcher, Mar 26 (UNI) In a major breakdown at NTPC-Kaniha plant near here four out of six 500-MW units tripped yesterday paralysing power supply to the Southern region completely.

Official sources today said that not a single unit had been restored so far despite all efforts. These units were constructed in NTPC-Kaniha second phase expansion which ended in 2004.

Sensing the gravity of the situation and first-ever such a major breakdown in the country's largest power station, Eastern Region Executive Director S.R.Yadav and two senior officials from NTPC corporate office have rushed to the site to help restore the units.

These power units considered a vital life line for four Southern states - Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Kerala and Pondicherry.

NTPC-Kaniha plant named Talcher Super Thermal Power Plant was constructed in two stages. The first phase of 1000 MW commenced production in 1995 while the 2000 MW power second stage completed in 2004 is totally dedicated to Southern Grid.

Since the daily production from these four units are approximately 2000 MW of power, the NTPC would likely to suffer heavy loss in terms of finance following the breakdown, officials said.

UNI XC DP PC RD 1646