NTPC slapped show cause notice by Coal Minsitry for Pakri Barwadi coal block

KOLKATA: NTPC, which got back six of their coal blocks from the government this year after had to be returned due to lack of progress, has been once again slapped a show cause notice by the coal ministry for missing its milestone for the Pakri Barwadi Block.

Senior NTPC officials, however, said: “Mining operations is expected to start this year because ground work is nearly complete and the company has been able to acquire substantial land for the project. The contract for mining development operation has already been awarded. However, this being a Naxal infested area work progress is being affected.”

According to the letter sent by the coal ministry, the ministry, in the review meeting held in December 2012, it was noticed that the progress of the Pakri Barwadih coal block allocated to company was not satisfactory. The Committee, that over seas progress of such mining blocks expressed concern over unsatisfactory progress and advised to expedite the development of the coal block.

Accordingly, a caution letter was also issued to the company with the direction to expedite the development of the coal block and be careful in future with respect to the milestones stipulated.

The letter mentioned that no significant progress has been made by NTPC on the block till December 12 since completion of land acquisition and application for mine operation permission are still pending. “Keeping in view the unsatisfactory progress the government recommended issuing a show cause notice for delay in development of the block.