Bhatti Proposes New Coal Mining Partnership Between Telangana and Karnataka

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has proposed a joint venture between Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) and Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) to strengthen coal production and meet Karnataka’s growing power requirements.

During his visit to Bengaluru, Bhatti Vikramarka met Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George and discussed ways to expand cooperation between the two states in the energy sector. Their discussions covered coal supply arrangements, pending payments related to coal purchases and the exchange of technical expertise.

With Karnataka witnessing a steady rise in electricity demand, Bhatti suggested that Singareni could play a larger role in helping the state secure its coal requirements. He pointed out that Karnataka has captive coal blocks in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, where Singareni’s long-standing experience in mining could be effectively utilised.

The Deputy Chief Minister proposed that SCCL and KPCL establish a separate joint venture company to undertake mining operations in these coal blocks. Such a partnership, he said, could combine Karnataka’s coal assets with Singareni’s operational and technical expertise, creating benefits for both states.

The proposed collaboration could help Karnataka develop its captive coal resources more efficiently while opening up a new avenue for inter-state cooperation in the energy and mining sectors.

Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George responded positively to the proposal, signalling the possibility of further discussions on the joint venture between the two state-owned corporations.