'Nagarjuna project not to damage eco-system'

Nagarjuna Power Corporation Limited (NPCL), which is in the process of setting up a 1,015 MW coal-based power project near Mangalore, has assured the local residents that it would recycle the effluents and use fly ash in other industries without harming the environment. "The fishermen of the region have no reason to panic," said Praveer Sinha, CEO, NPCL.

Speaking to reporters here on Wednesday, he said the power plant to be set up at Yellur village near Mangalore would use technology comparable to the best in the world. The plant would comprise of an eco-friendly Flu-gas de-sulphurisation plant, electrostatic precipitators, a chimney which would be 275 metres tall among others to ensure environment friendly approach.

Moreover the high quality coal with high calorific value would be imported in sealed containers and unloaded at a captive jetty at the New Mangalore Port. The coal would then be transported in sealed wagons and finally discharged at the plant thus safeguarding the environment, he claimed.

The Rs 4,299 crore power plant would initially employ 8,000 people. The company is ready to provide a separate line for the industries in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. It would also provide power at a cost of Rs 2.20 per unit to power distributors, he promised.

Sinha pointed out that those opposing the project could approach the court instead of resorting to illegal means like ransacking the project office recently. People from elsewhere like Karkala and Kundapur not concerned with the project and not aware of the happenings are hired to stage protest rallies.

The local people are for the project and are willing to provide land, he claimed and added that the 50 families to be rehabilitated would be given handsome compensation, employment and residential sites, he said.

"The company has an impeccable track record and is committed to establish a model power plant in the district thus heralding progress and growth of the region in all spheres," he added.