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NTPC Shuts 5 Units as Water Level in Farakka Canal Dips

Representational image
Representational image

New Delhi: State-owned power producer NTPC has been forced to shut 1,600 MW electricity generating units following dip in Farakka canal water level due to diversion of water to Bangladesh but insisted there will be no shortage of power in West Bengal.

"There is a dip in the water level in Farakka Feeder Canal due to diversion of water to Bangladesh as per the international treaty. As a result, NTPC has been forced to temporarily stop five units (1,600 MW) out of its six units (2,100 MW) at Farakka," the company said in a statement.

Currently, one unit of 500 MW is under operation. The situation is likely to continue till April 10.

"However, there will not be any shortage of power to West Bengal as a result of these closures," it said.

The total allocation to West Bengal from NTPC stations is 786 MW, which can be fully met if power is requisitioned by the state.

"In fact, even now Farakka and Kahalgaon stations are not fully scheduled, leading to partial loading. If required by the State, NTPC can also supply more than its allocation to West Bengal by supplying surplus power from NTPC stations," the company said.

West Bengal, it said, has also surrendered its 199 MW power allocation from NTPC Barh Stage-II (2X660 MW) in Bihar.

"In short, enough power is available with NTPC to meet any requirement of the State," the statement said.