Power generation to dip in Koradi, Khaparkheda

Continuous neglect of coal stock position in Koradi and Khaparkheda thermal power stations is going to cost Mahagenco and consequently
power consumers of state.

In the beginning of May, all power stations of Mahagenco did not have adequate coal stock. However, the generation company concentrated on increasing the stock of Nashik, Parli and Chandrapur power stations while neglecting Koradi, Khaparkheda and Bhusawal. Paras power plant had six days’ stock in the beginning of May but now it does not have even have two days’ stock.

As on June 18, Khaparkheda power plant had 26,000 ton coal in stock against a daily requirement 14,800 ton (1.75 days) while Koradi had 41,000 ton against 18,500 needed per day (2.21 days).

Now, South Eastern Central Railway (SECR) has decided to lay a third line between Durg and Bilaspur. Due to this work, the speed of trains on the two existing lines would be reduced and movement of goods trains may be restricted between June 22 and 25.

Mahagenco officials said on Sunday that Koradi power plant received 90% of its coal requirement from Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) and South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) while Khaparkheda received 62% of its requirement. MCL coal reached the two plants via Sambalpur-Bilaspur-Durg route. The railway work would reduce the supply of MCL coal to the two plants between June 22 and 25.

Mahagenco director (operations) Madhukar Shelar had met railway officials on June 17 and requested them to arrange for passage of more coal rakes before the blockade. He told railways that Koradi needed minimum four coal rakes per day while Khaparkheda needed six rakes daily.

Meanwhile, Mahagenco has requested WCL and other coal companies to increase the coal supply during the crisis period. However, officials said that despite this, they may have to reduce production of the two plants by 50% between June 22 and 25. The generation would be on the lower side until coal stock position improves.