NTPC shuts down one unit following orders

TALCHER: The NTPC authorities at Kaniha have shut down one of the four 500 MW units of the 3000 MW power plant following a closure notice by the Orissa State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB). The board, on June 28, had ordered for closure of NTPC's four 500 MW units after it failed to implement the ash management system. NTPC intimated OSPCB about shutting down of one of its unit of Stage-II on Thursday night. Angul District Collector S. Mishra too had taken up the matter with NTPC authorities. It is the responsibility of the collector to ensure the closure. The closure order slapped on NTPC is being seen as a major setback for the company's reputation. "A highlevel official team from the Delhi corporate office is camping at Bhubaneswar and holding talks with OSPCB officials," said a NTPC official source.With OSPCB adamant, the closure of all the four units is likely to impact nationwide power supply.