NOC from NLC for allotment of Lignite blocks

New Delhi, May 12 (UNI) Tamil Nadu-based public sector company, Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) has plans for development of coal blocks in open cast mining, underground coal gasification and coal bed methane in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

According to official sources, the company is expanding its operations in Rajasthan in addition to the existing mining and power generation activities in Tamil Nadu.

The company also plans to take up exploration activities in lignite blocks in the country to augment lignite production. NLC is also designated as a data center for lignite resource database.

Keeping in view the future plans of NLC and to ensure the resources are put to use in a planned and scientific manner, it has been decided that a State Government company or undertaking shall obtain a certificate from NLC to the effect that they have no plan or willingness to undertake mining operation in the concerned lignite block. The present arrangement is under review.

Regarding Raneri Lignite block in Bikaner district of Rajasthan, NLC proposes to utilize the deposits from this block for an Underground Coal Gasification project, which was sanctioned in August 2005. ''It is expected to be completed within four years from the date of sanction'', the sources added.

UNI