New Delhi, March 16 (IANS): In a move that will allow sustained 100 percent capacity operations, Sasan Power has been given official permission to produce up to 17.20 million tonnes of coal per annum during this fiscal from its Moher and Moher Amlohri extension mines in Madhya Pradesh.

A part of the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group, Sasan Power said the approval will help its ultra mega power project to generate 2,200 million units of additional electricity, which will benefit 42 crore population among seven procurer states. 

"Moher and Moher Amlohri Extension coal mines, the largest captive coal mine in the country in terms of volume handled, has achieved highest coal production of 16 million tonnes per annum and is set to create a new benchmark of production among private sector players," the company said.

In June 2015, the coal ministry had directed Sasan Power to limit annual coal production to 16 million tonnes per annum. Based on the company's representations, the ministry has permitted it to increase the production to 17.20 million tonnes during this fiscal.