Coal block to OMC, coal linkage to OPGC figure in Naveen-Modi talks

New Delhi: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention on several issues related to the interests of the State.

During a meeting with Modi at his residence at 7, Race course Road here, Patnaik requested him to intervene in ensuring coal block to OMC, coal linkage to OPGC, bidding for the Bhedabahal ultra mega power project (UMPP) and some other issues.

"I had a meeting with Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi. I sought his intervention on several matters which include bridge linkage of coal for Odisha Power Generation Corporation Ltd (OPGC). Also early initiation of bidding process for Ultra Mega Power Plant at Bhedabahal in Sundergarh and allocation of an alternative coal block in lieu of Tentulia to Odisha Thermal Power Corporation ltd (OTPCL), allocation of two coal blocks for Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC). Also to grant of conditional environmental clearance for mining project in Odisha," Patnaik told media person after the meeting.

"The prime minister appreciated our concerns and assured me to look into the matter", Naveen said.

When asked whether he raised issues related to drought, Patnaik said "No, I have not raised that issue in this meeting".

Replying to a query of media persons over Kalahandi wagon factory shifting, he said "I have not discussed that matter with PM today. I had written a letter to Railway minister Suresh Prabhu regarding it”.