Hyderabad, Dec 19: Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu held a special meeting with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Begumpet here on Thursday and discussed the feasibility of setting up a thermal power plant at the pithead of the Naini coal block, officials said.

The meeting, attended by senior officials including Energy Department Principal Secretary Navin Mittal, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) Chairman and Managing Director Krishna Bhaskar, and other representatives, focused on the potential of leveraging the Naini coal block for power generation. The coal block, operated under Singareni, is seen as a strategic resource for Telangana’s energy requirements.

Mallu explained that, as per the directions of the Telangana Government, a team of officials from the Energy Department will soon visit the Naini area in Odisha to conduct a detailed feasibility study. The team will assess technical, environmental, and economic aspects of establishing a thermal power plant at the pit-head, ensuring that coal resources are utilized efficiently and sustainably.

The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the Telangana Government is committed to strengthening its energy infrastructure to meet growing demand. He noted that the proposed project could significantly reduce transportation costs, improve efficiency, and enhance energy security for the state.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi welcomed the initiative and assured cooperation from the Odisha administration in facilitating the study. The collaboration between the two states highlights the importance of inter-state partnerships in addressing energy challenges and optimizing resource utilization.

Following the feasibility study, the Telangana Government will take an appropriate decision on moving forward with the project. Officials indicated that the proposal aligns with Telangana’s broader energy strategy, which includes diversifying sources of power generation and ensuring long-term sustainability.

The meeting marks a crucial step in exploring new avenues for energy development, with both states recognizing the significance of the Naini coal block in shaping future power projects.