Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Jan 31: A petition that was filed, seeking the suspension of the laying of the railway tracks near Nandikoor and Yellur for being used to supply coal to the thermal power generation plant of  Nagarjuna Company, was taken up by the state High Court on Friday January 29. Diwakar Bhat and others, who are seeking quashing of the notification issued in February and August 2009, towards the acquisition of their lands for the railway tracks, have moved this petition.

“At the time the plant was permitted, the government had laid down some conditions.  As per the conditions, carrying of coal from Mangalore port to the plant through the railway route has been banned. The coal was to be transported through cables. The tracks are now being laid, in contravention of the above condition. If this is permitted, the coastal belt will turn into a black stretch,” the petitioners have argued.

Uday Holla, advocate, who appeared on behalf of the state government, objected to this argument. He stated that 92% of the plant’s works have been already completed, and in the first phase, a 500 mw power unit will be inaugurated during April this year. “The government too is facing financial crunch. Cancellation of the notification at this point is not justifiable,” he said.

Justice S Abdul Nazir, who heard the arguments, issued notices to the central and state governments, before adjourning the hearing.