NTPC's performance in 2009-10: Achieves 32 out of 53 milestones on time

Though public sector utilities are frequently chided for not sticking to the completion targets, a review of various NTPC-executed projects reveals slightly divergent results. Out of 53 milestones scheduled for 2009-10, under its many projects, 32 were achieved by NTPC in time, another six were achieved with delay and three were accomplished in the current fiscal, i.e. 2010-11. In majority of the cases, like the 980 MW National Capital thermal power project (TPP), the 500 MW Korba stage-III project, the 1000 MW Simhadri-II project, the 500 MW Farakka stage-III project, the 1320 MW Sipat stage-I project, the 1980 MW Barh-I and 1320 Barh-II projects, the 750 MW Bangaigaon project and the 1000 MW Mouda super thermal power project (STPP) the company has, more or less, met all the scheduled deadlines on time. 

However, the 800 MW Kol Dam project, which is NTPC's first ever hydroelectric project (HEP), which was scheduled for completion in December 2009 has been delayed and is not likely to be completed in the near future due to inexperience of the company in handling bank slide and other seepage issues. On the same note, the 520 MW Tapovan Vishnugarh project, which was slated for completion in December 2009, has been shifted to this fiscal. Similarly, work on the controversial 600 MW Loharinag Pala project, which was earlier on hold, is likely to resume soon.  Pertinently, work on the project has been stopped since 2008, due to the protests and legal issues surrounding its implementation. The project has finally been given the go-ahead by the finance minister this month. While acknowledging its progress, the Ministry of Power has directed the company to improve its performance with regard to these few projects.