Date:12/05/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/12/stories/2007051216211600.htm

National

Manmohan, Deshmukh discuss power shortage

Special Correspondent

Augmentation of power supply, speedy clearance of projects discussed

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday held a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilas Rao Deshmukh to discuss the "acute power shortage" faced by the State that has led to a law and order situation.

Various measures, including augmentation of power supply and speedy clearance to pending projects, were discussed.

Besides Mr. Deshmukh, Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Murli Deora, along with Deputy Chief Minister R.R. Patil and State Energy Minister Dilip Walse Patil took part in the meeting.

Mr. Deshmukh briefed Dr. Singh on the measures taken by his Government for capacity addition of nearly 6,000 MW by 2012 and the current shortage of nearly 4,000 MW.

Fast-track approval

Mr. Deshmukh sought Dr. Singh's intervention on major issues, including fast-track approval of pending projects with the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

Environmental clearance is required for the Koradji and Chandrapur projects (2,400 MWs) and the replacement projects — Parli, Paras and Bhusawal. Coal linkages too are required.

MahaGenco, the State Power Generation Company, will set up a 1040 MW gas-based plant at Uran, for which all clearances have been obtained. The Government has requested the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to ensure a tie-up with Reliance for supplying gas from its production platform in the KG basin.