Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has inaugurated the new 330MW coal fired power plant of Thar Energy Limited (TEL). While speaking at the occasion he said that not utilising the true potential of locally available coal has been a huge mistake and the government will convene all the stake holders to listen to their concerns.
During his visit he also inaugurated the commercial operations of Phase-II of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC). The PM said that the federal government, in collaboration with the Sindh government, would chalk out a policy framework on the Thar Coal Mines Project, with an objective to connect it with other coal-powered power plants in the country, producing 4,000 megawatts.
Recently the process for connecting the that coal mine to the railway lines was finalised to ensure proper transportation for the coal so it can be utilised by industries and power plants all across the country. Thar Coal project would save the country’s foreign exchange and help thrive the national economy.
Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong congratulated the Government of Pakistan on the successful completion of the project and lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his “consistent devotion and firm support” in strengthening Pakistan-China cooperation including in CPEC projects.
The government is also in the process of determining a method to use Thar coal at coal fired power plants designed to work on imported coal. In this regard mixing/blending of the two coals has been advised to cater for the high water and high sulfur content of the Thar coal.
