Power Ministry and private units in a bind over coal supply shortage

Import curb might go for thermal power units, as quantity offered dips and price surges, triggering complaints

Even with claims of record high coal output, the power ministry agrees there is a supply problem to thermal power units. 

To meet the shortfall in coal supply, the power ministry has asked the power generators to import coal to build stock. Sources said the ministry might urge the prime minister’s office to look into the shortage. It has also proposed a change for the arrangement in this regard, beside suggesting thermal power producers’ import it if needed. 

The minimum level of coal supply to a plant should be increased to 100 per cent of the demand, proposes a power