Coal shortage hits RTPP

Kadapa: Coal shortage has hit the power generation at Rayalaseema Thermal Power Plant (RTPP) here. The coal supply has become erratic after the bifurcation of the State. In spite of the agreement with RTPP to supply coal till 2030, Singareni Collieries has cut the supply of coal for reasons better known to it. The power generation has come down from 1050 mw to 350 mw resulting in frequent power shutdown all over Rayalaseema.

RTPP was established 25 years ago at Kalamalla in Muddanur mandal and in due course five units are established to generate 1050 mw. The necessary coal has been supplied by Singareni Collieries under an agreement which would expire in 2030. However, the coal supply from Singareni Collieries has become erratic of late. As a result, the power generation has come down drastically.

RTPP needs 15,000 to 16,500 tonnes of coal every day. Coal supply from Singareni has become erratic after bifurcation of the state. Presently, there is hardly 12,000 tonnes of foreign coal in the yard of RTPP which is insufficient for day-to-day power generation. The RTPP mixes the foreign coal with Indian coal for power generation. The power generation has come down to 350 mw due to coal shortage. The power generation might come to a complete halt if coal supply is not restored immediately.

As per the agreement with Genco, the Singareni has to supply 38.8 lakh tonnes per year at the rate of 3.3 lakh tonnes per month to the RTPP. However, after bifurcation, Singareni is supplying only 2.2 lakh tonnes per month. In case the Singareni further cuts the coal supply, the RTPP might be closed. The newly formed Government should take initiative to restore coal supply to the RTPP in the larger interest of the people of Rayalaseema.