A public hearing for the proposed 1600 MW capacity expansion of Korba Power Limited (KPL) at Pataadi in Barpali tehsil was conducted on Friday by the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board (CECB). The hearing was organised as part of the environmental clearance process for the proposed addition of two 800 MW units to the existing plant. The programme was held at the playground of a government school in village Saragbundi from 12 noon onwards. Additional Collector Devendra Patel presided over the proceedings, while Regional Officer of the Environment Board Ankur Sahu,

 

SDM Saroj Kumar Mahilange and Executive Engineer Prasanna Sonkar were present along with other administrative officials. Representatives of the project proponent presented details of the expansion proposal and outlined environmental safeguards and mitigation measures. The hearing lasted for approximately two and a half hours and witnessed participation from thousands of residents from 12 villages including Khoddel, Pataadi, Saragbundi, Pahanda, Baridih and Tilkeja. Several villagers spoke on issues relating to local development, employment generation and livelihood opportunities.

 

According to information shared at the venue, a majority of participants expressed support for the proposed expansion, while also placing suggestions and expectations before the authorities. Elected representatives and sarpanches from the affected villages were among those who addressed the gathering. They highlighted expectations regarding job opportunities for local youth, skill development initiatives and continued corporate social responsibility interventions in the region. Notably, the existing 2x300 MW sub critical units of the plant have been operational for over a decade. The proposed expansion seeks to augment generation capacity at the same site. The proceedings concluded with officials assuring that all representations would be recorded and forwarded as part of the environmental clear