Date:11/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/09/11/stories/2006091100550600.htm

Back `Power'ing up for imports

GEARING UP for coal imports

While National Thermal Power Corporation, a major importer of steam coal, is yet to begin buying on a regular basis this year, several other power houses are gearing themselves up for imports. Thus, Damodar Valley Corporation is believed to be toying with the idea of using imported coal in four of its thermal power plants and has, accordingly, contacted MMTC for handling the operations.

West Bengal Power Development Corporation too was given for the first time linkage for import of 30,000 tonnes per month for the present quarter (July-September) but the import did not take place for various reasons.

Inquiries reveal that WBPDCL may start importing the next quarter (Oct-Dec) for its Kolghata plant, and Haldia dock, being only 55 km away from the plant, will be the obvious choice.

Tamil Nadu Electricity Board has cut down significantly on coastal movement, fuelling speculation that it may also importon a large scale.

Interestingly, the bulk of the proposed imports will be through the east coast ports.

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