Power production increased in MP: Shejwar

Jabalpur, June 16 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Energy Minister Gaurishankar Shejwar today said power production has increased by 2,937 MW in the past four years from 2,991 MW in January 2004 to 5,928 MW in June 2008.

Dr Shejwar told reporters here today that construction work of the 210 MW Amarkantak Thermal Expansion unit was in last phases. The unit would become operational from today.

Union Minister of State for Power Jairam Ramesh would visit the thermal plant today for inspecting the unit becoming operational.

A letter would be given to Mr Ramesh and he would be urged to give directions to the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) to complete the remaining work of the unit at the earliest so that professional production could start from September 15.

Pointing out that most thermal power plants in the state had become old, he said still 70 per cent plant load factor has been achieved.

Under the eleventh five-year plan, programmes have been chalked out to increase power generation by 5,740 MW. Tenders had been invited for the implementation of the 1,200 MW Malwa thermal power plant. The BHEL had been given orders for expansion of two 250 MW units.

Besides, memorandums of understanding (MoUs) had been signed between the government and 26 companies for generating 31,225 MW, he added.

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