Date:14/05/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/05/14/stories/2005051410100400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Tripping hits power supply

Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD: The APTransco has imposed power cut in several parts of the State following shortage of nearly 700 MW due to tripping of the Kothagudem thermal power station.

The Kothagudem station has an installed capacity of 1,280 MW from its 10 units but 700 MW out of this could not be revived after Thursday's tripping.

The threat of the tripping looms large over the complex because its power evacuation system has not been fully restored.

Full restoration of the complex depends on the re-erection of the seven collapsed 220-KV transmission lines at Budidampadu.

Load shedding

After a review of the power supply position by the Chief Minister here on Friday, the Finance Minister, K. Rosaiah, and the Transco CMD, Rachel Chatterjee, said they were forced to resort to cut power to cope with shortage. It would continue for a few more days. They regretted the inconvenience caused to consumers.

The Minister said they tried to purchase from outside sources but they could get only 75 MW due to `corridor congestion'. He said work on restoration of the collapsed towers was in full swing.