Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Mar 9: Speaking to reporters after participating in a meeting relating to issues connected with Udupi Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) in the office of Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd here on Tuesday March 8, state Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa, insisted that there was no question of closing UPCL. ‘There is no ambiguity about the functioning of UPCL thermal power plant functioning near Nandikoor in Udupi district. In respect of environmental issues and disputes raised, the local people will be taken into confidence. All the points will be discussed with the local people, and it will be ensured that every objection raised and problem faced, will be addressed to the satisfaction of everyone concerned. There is no question of closing down of the power plant,” he added.

Energy minister, Shobha Karandlaje, promised that the government will take steps to see that fly ash generated by the plant will not harm the villagers living near the plant. She said that the government will be taking stern steps and hold officials responsible to manage the fly ash deposits properly. At the same time, she requested farmers not to lose their patience.

Udupi district in-charge minister, Dr V S Acharya, also said that scientific solutions will be found to all the problems connected with the plant, like leakage in its pipeline and improper management of fly ash.

Shobha said that the demand for power in the state has now touched 167 million units, and that the government is managing the situation by purchasing 1,300 mw of power from other states on a daily basis.