Panel asks NEEPCO to tie up with MMDC

SHILLONG: The Empowered Committee on power has asked North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) to tie up with Meghalaya Minerals Development Corporation (MMDC) and explore the possibility of a coal linkage with coal mine owners for the 500 MW coal-based thermal power project coming up in Garo Hills.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma informed that NEEPCO has given a detailed presentation before the government, including site selection and possibility of coal linkage for the project.
According to Sangma, the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 2015 provides space for government companies to have mining activity through mining lease and accordingly, NEEPCO has been directed to tie up with concerned agencies for coal linkage. In addition, another 240 MW coal-based thermal power project is coming up at Nangalbibra and the developer has identified the site besides taking possession of land.
However, the detailed project report is incomplete due to evacuation issues.