JSPL to start production from Odisha coal block

Jindal Steel and Power (JSPL) is likely to start production from its Utkal B-1 coal block in Odisha. By August this year it is expected to have a reserve of about 225 million tonne. JSPL aims to have coal production of total steelmaking capacity of 15 million tonne per annum by 2015 from its blocks, both, domestic and overseas.

The coal produced from the Utakl B-1 block will be utilized in JSPL's upcoming steel plant of 6 million tonne capacity in Angul. The company, which currently has 3 million tonne steel making capacity, is investing about Rs 45,000 crore on its expansion.  

The coal block, allocated to the company way back in September, 2003 for its captive use, has missed its production deadline several times in past. Last year, the company was warned by the Coal Ministry over its delayed production. The company will also begin shipping coal from its mines in Mozambique in next 3-4 months.