In a first, 135-year-old Singareni takes up coal mining outside Telangana in Odisha

Hyderabad: For the first time, the 135-year-old state-owned Singareni is taking up the first coal mining project outside Telangana in Odisha.

Production of coal will start in the Nani coal block in Odhisa soon.

Allotted in 2015, but work not started

Nani coal block was allocated in 2015 but due to the disinterest of the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi government, the production did not start.

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu said, "I went to Odisha with Singareni CMD N Balaram to seek cooperation from the government. Their response has been favorable."

The Naini coal block has received the required permission, and the 783.27 hectares of forest land was transferred to Singareni company by the Odisha State Forest Department.

Work to start in four months

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu directed officials to complete pending work and start production of coal from the Naini coal block in Odisha in four months.

In a review meeting, officials were asked to enhance the reputation of the state government and Singareni company. Officials were also asked to coordinate with the forest department of Odisha.

Co-operation of displaced villagers

Bhatti sought cooperation from Odisha's local MLA Agasthi Behera to resolve issues with local villagers.

On the displacement of villagers, Bhatti asked the Telangana government officials to be considerate. He asked Singareni officials to keep the welfare of the people in mind.

Transfer of land

In a meeting with Odisha's chief minister, discussions revolved around the transfer of land and widening roads road in the mining area.

Officials pitched for cooperation between the forest and the energy department to expedite the project.