Bhatti Seeks Centre’s Nod For Singareni Gasification Projects
The Deputy Chief Minister requested Kishan Reddy to grant prior approval under Section 5 of the MMDR Act, 1957, for Tadicherla Coal Block–II and to expedite the mining lease process
Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka urged the Centre to support the proposals of Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) to take up coal gasification in tune with the Central government’s policy. During his meeting with Union coal and mines minister G. Kishan Reddy in Delhi, Bhatti discussed the plans of SCCL, coal gasification opportunities, allocation of new coal blocks, and the mining lease issue relating to Tadicherla Coal Block–II.
Bhatti said that coal should not be confined only to conventional power generation, but should also be utilised in a value-added manner in line with future industrial requirements. He said that, in view of the priority being given by the Centre to coal gasification, SCCL was ready to move forward in this direction.
The Deputy Chief Minister stated that, on the lines of gasification initiatives being taken up by Coal India, Singareni is also examining possibilities to utilise its coal resources more efficiently through modern technology.
He said that coal gasification would add value to coal resources and also strengthen energy security, industrial usage and employment opportunities. He requested the Ministry of Coal to extend necessary technical guidance, policy support and assistance in linking Singareni’s initiatives with Central schemes.
He brought to the notice of the Union minister that Koyagudem Block–III, located in the Godavari Valley Coal Fields, was crucial for meeting Telangana’s power requirements. Though the block was allotted through auction in the past, operations have not commenced even after four years, he said. In this context, he requested that steps be taken to allocate Koyagudem Block–III to Singareni Collieries.
The issue of Tadicherla Coal Block–II was also discussed in the meeting. He explained that SCCL had taken up pre-mining activities and exploration works related to the block, and that there is a need to expedite the mining lease process. He said the development of Tadicherla Coal Block–II is important for Singareni’s future requirements and Telangana’s energy security.
The Deputy Chief Minister requested Kishan Reddy to grant prior approval under Section 5 of the MMDR Act, 1957, for Tadicherla Coal Block–II and to expedite the mining lease process. The Union minister responded positively to the issues and assured that a joint meeting would soon be convened with the concerned Central, state and Singareni officials to discuss coal gasification plans, allocation of Koyagudem Block–III, and the mining lease issue of Tadicherla Coal Block–II.
