KARACHI: The Thar coal mining and 660 MW power project in Thar Block II will be completed ahead of the scheduled time, the commissioning date is set as June 3, 2019, said Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) chief Shamsuddin Ahmed Shaikh.
“We are ready to talk with the protesters to remove their concerns which were created by misinformation—protests are being held despite the declaration of it being safe by the Sindh High Court,” he expressed these views, while addressing the Iftar dinner organised in Mithi.
Sharing the details of the coal mining project, Shaikh said the company has achieved 40 per cent of mining and 33 per cent progress on the power projects in 15 months after the financial closure achieved in April 2016.
“The total duration envisaged for completion of the project was set at 42 months, but the pace of the work ensures us of its completion in 38 months instead,” he added.
He asserted that that benefits from the coal projects in Thar should go to the locals of Thar before the rest of the country and, that’s why, he added, the company has started interventions in education, health, livelihood, and drinking water sectors for the people of the area – and the schemes have already started benefiting the locals.
Sindh Assembly member Dr Mahesh Malani said that the Thar Coal Block II project is one of the largest energy schemes of Pakistan and it is a blessing for the people of Thar.
Dr Malani assured that the Sindh government through its elected representatives is ready to guarantee that no damage would occur to the locals living around the Gorrano Reservoir.
He also said the government is considering a package for the Gorrano community which would be announced soon.
Responding to the question pertaining to the technicalities of the Gorrano reservoir, he said the feasibility study has been prepared by the reputable international firms and it is in no one’s favour to challenge their reports which have been carefully drafted after comprehensive research considering all aspects.
Contrary to a popular misconception, the project shall benefit the Thar on a large scale which would surely bring prosperity in the area, concluded the SECMC chief.
