The Hindu Business Line : Australia keen on exporting coal to India

, Australia is keen on tapping the potential of exporting coal to India for various power projects in the State while assessing the possibility to partner in development of hydel projects.

The Australian High Commissioner in Delhi, Mr John McCarthy, during his interaction with the State Energy Minister, Mohd Ali Shabbir, ascertained the arrangements being made near the Krishnapatnam port, which would serve as a hub to receive imported coal from Australia.

Earlier, the envoy met with the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy. He was accompanied by the Australian Trade Commissioner, Mr Tony Birchil.

Krishnapatnam near Nellore has been chosen as an ideal location for two major power projects, which include the ultra mega power plant of 4,000 MW and a 1,600 MW plant being undertaken by APGenco.

The infrastructure necessary to transfer the coal is under construction at Krishnapatnam.

The Power Minister said that tenders have already been invited for the ultra mega project, which is to be developed by a selected consortium. The necessary land has already been acquired. This is one of the four ultra mega projects proposed by the Central Government in the country and Krishnapatnam has been chosen as one of the locations.

During the discussions, Mr McCarthy is learnt to have said his Government was ready to cooperate with the State in setting up of hydroelectric projects here.

More Stories on : Coal | Power | Andhra Pradesh | Foreign Trade

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page