Kothagudem thermal workers demand 2×800 MW power plant in Paloncha

Retired engineers and unions form a committee demanding a new 2x800 MW thermal plant at the decommissioned KTPS site. They plan petitions, protests, and public mobilisation to revive the local economy and push for regional development

Kothagudem: In a bid to restore the past glory of the Kothagudem Thermal Power Station (KTPS) in Paloncha, retired engineers, trade unions, and local associations are preparing to launch a series of initiatives demanding the establishment of new thermal power units.

A committee titled Nutana Vidyut Kendra Sadhana Committee has recently been formed under the leadership of Jammula Sitarama Reddy, a retired foreman of KTPS. The committee’s primary objective is to advocate for the construction of a 2×800 MW capacity power plant at the existing KTPS site.

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It may be recalled that Telangana Power Generation Corporation Limited (TSGENCO), acting on directions from the Union Ministry of Environment, decommissioned eight thermal power units with a combined capacity of 720 MW. These units, built in phases between 1965 and 1978, were retired in 2020 due to technical, economic, and environmental constraints.

Following the closures, both workers and officials were transferred to newer power stations, leading to a decline in economic activity and development in Paloncha and surrounding areas. Residents have long urged the government to set up new power units to revitalise the region.

Speaking to Telangana Today, Sitarama Reddy said that when the older units were shut down, it was widely expected that a new power plant would be built on the same site. However, with no progress on that front, the committee was formed to apply pressure on the government.

A recent meeting of union leaders, engineers, employees, retired personnel, artisans, and contract workers was held to plan the way forward. Another meeting is scheduled for June 20 in Paloncha.

The committee plans to compile technical data supporting the feasibility and need for new thermal units. In the first phase, a petition will be submitted to the KTPS Chief Engineers, District Collector, TSGENCO CMD, and local elected representatives, including MLAs and Ministers.

In the second phase, the movement will seek support from like-minded organisations and individuals. If necessary, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) will be formed to organise protests and hunger strikes to intensify the demand, Sitarama Reddy added.

Meanwhile, the Forum for Better Paloncha, led by Nukala Ranga Rao, has also launched a parallel initiative. In addition to demanding a new 800 MW thermal plant, the forum is calling for the development of an IT hub, industrial park, and other infrastructure projects to support the town’s long-term growth.