Bathinda thermal plant runs into trouble
Monday, 18/06/2012
http://www.tribuneindia.com/2012/20120618/punjab.htm#11
With the expiry of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) and Lanco Infratech Ltd, Hyderabad, to set up a 1320-MW coal-based thermal plant at Kot Shamir in Bhatinda, the fate of project has become uncertain.
The MoU was signed on February 9 last year, but the developer has not approached the PSPCL for seeking its extension.
The deadline for commissioning the first unit of 660 MW was mid-2015.
GS Chhabra, Director (generation), PSPCL, confirmed that the one-year validity of the MoU has expired. He said: "After inking the MoU, the developer did not respond and has not even applied for an extension".
An official of Lanco Infratech Ltd said in an e-mail: "Lanco had communicated to the PSPCL in August 2011, indicating that it is essential to have a firm fuel arrangement for the project and requested for support of the government authorities in this regard. It was conveyed that the plant's technical parameters and detailed project report (DPR) can be finalised after clarity on fuel security".
