NTPC likely to close two units in Orissa

NTPC Ltd. | Power Generation/Distribution | Power | BSE: 532555 | NSE: NTPC

05 Jul 2011 Evaluate

The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) is likely to shut down two more units of 500 MW each in Orissa. The power utility major has already shut down two of its 500 MW units at Kanhia, near Talcher, in the state.

Orissa State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) has sent closure notice to the central public sector unit due to its faulty fly ash management plan. However, the NTPC authorities have requested the OSPCB to reconsider its decision. Responding to the NTPC's request, the OSPCB has asked the company to submit a permanent action plan (PAP) to contain the fly ash problem. The PAP should be satisfactory to both the sides.

In July 2010 and on June 3, 2011, there were breaches in the dykes and ash slurry oozed out of the pond. The slurry flowed down to the local Nandira River, a tributary of Brahmani, and contaminated it. In the second incident, the breach was limited to NTPC's own area and did not cause any damage to public health. The OSPCB, on June 29, rejected NTPC's request for four months time to re-pair and raise the height of the ash pond dykes.