Date:04/02/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/02/04/stories/2005020401290700.htm

Back NTPC to import coal to tide over shortages

Our Bureau

New Delhi , Feb. 3

NATIONAL Thermal Power Corporation, the country's largest power generator, is in the process of importing coal to tide over a shortfall at some of its units.

"We want the coal as soon as possible," the Chairman and Managing Director, Mr C.P. Jain, said. The company has already approached MMTC Ltd, a state-run trading company, to import the fuel stock, Mr Jain said.

NTPC plans to source around 1,76,000 tonnes of coal a month over the next three to four months, he said. The company needs about 50,000 tonnes of coal for its Dadri plant in Uttar Pradesh, while the rest of the coal is required for units on the eastern coast, he said. NTPC uses coal to fire 13 of its 20 plants.