Munde cracks whip in Chandrapur over choking pollution Maharashtra’s environment and climate change minister Pankaja Munde conducted an on-ground inspection in Chandrapur on Thursday, addressing the severe pollution crisis in the industrial district. During the visit, she warned industries operating in the region that violations of pollution norms would not be tolerated and emphasized that human lives must not be jeopardized by unchecked industrial activity. Munde directed companies to immediately implement pollution-control measures, including foggers and dust-suppression systems, across key industrial zones such as the Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station in Durgapur and coal washeries in Belsani and Ghuggus. She also outlined a phased roadmap for pollution mitigation, comprising one-year, three-year, and long-term strategies to address the worsening environmental degradation. The minister’s intervention followed concerns raised by Nagpur-based MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar, who had previously highlighted the scale of pollution and its adverse effects on local communities. Munde reiterated her commitment to resolving the issue, stating that she had come to Chandrapur to directly assess the situation and engage with affected residents. She also warned government officials of strict action against those failing to enforce pollution regulations. In addition to addressing pollution, Munde participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for development projects worth 25 crore in Salod (Hirapur), Wardha. Wardha guardian minister Pankaj Bhoyar was present at the event. She emphasized the importance of rural development, urging villagers to establish their own enterprises rather than migrate to cities for employment.#chandrapur #pankaja_munde #chandrapur_super_thermal_power_station #nagpur_based_mla_sudhir_mungantiwar #wardha_guardian_minister_pankaj_bhoyar
Chandrapur Plant Ready to Handle Power Demand Spike The Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station has announced its preparedness to manage a significant surge in electricity demand as summer intensifies. Officials at the plant, which supplies approximately 25% of Maharashtra’s electricity, have confirmed that they are maintaining ample fuel reserves and operational readiness to meet the increased demand. Chief Engineer Anil Kathoye highlighted that the facility currently holds around 5 million metric tonnes of coal, sufficient to ensure uninterrupted power generation during peak periods. Addressing environmental concerns, Kathoye noted that Units 1 and 2, previously identified as major sources of pollution, have already been decommissioned. Units 3 and 4, while still operational, are scheduled for phased closure. However, these units will continue functioning with necessary technical upgrades until replacement capacity becomes available, ensuring no disruption in power supply. The plant’s efforts to balance energy production with environmental sustainability underscore its commitment to addressing both current and future challenges. Looking ahead, the Chandrapur plant is exploring expansion through a proposed 800 MW advanced unit. The project, currently under consideration, may adopt either supercritical or ultra-supercritical technology. Kathoye indicated that if ultra-supercritical technology is approved, it would mark a first for both Maharashtra and the country. Such technology is praised for its efficiency in reducing coal consumption and lowering emissions, aligning with evolving environmental standards. The plant’s officials emphasized that the challenge of meeting rising energy demands while adhering to sustainability goals remains a top priority.#maharashtra #chandrapur_super_thermal_power_station #anil_kathoye #chandrapur_plant #800_mw_advanced_unit
