Karnataka seeks long term coal linkage for Bellary thermal unit

New Delhi, Nov 16 (UNI) Karnataka today urged the Centre to provide a long term linkage for coal for operating its Bellary Thermal Power Project (BTPS).

Speaking at the Power Ministers Conference, Karnataka Labour Minister Iqbal Ansari, on behalf of state Power Minister H D Revanna said that sourcing coal had become an increasingly difficult problem as the state was not endowed with coal, lignite or natural gas. The scheme for allotment of captive blocks for state entities was long winding and state entities should have a first say in such blocks.

The proposed coal blocks were of poor in both quality and quantity.

"I urge the Centre to quickly allot blocks as long term linkage for coal", the minister said.

He said Karnataka wanted to commission 500 MW capacity BTPS I by March 2007 and hoped to add 750 MW in the 11th plan (2007-12). The government was also adding 675 MW hydel capacity during the period.

The NTPC should be asked to set up 1600 MW unit in Delhi, Mr Ansari said.

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