Talcher, Odisha: NTPC Talcher Kaniha, the Super Thermal Power Station with a capacity of 3010 MW, has achieved a significant environmental milestone by reaching 100% ash utilization on March 20, 2025. This remarkable accomplishment underscores the station’s commitment to sustainability and adheres to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) for Ash Utilization.
Mr AK Sehgal, Executive Director of NTPC Talcher Kaniha, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “NTPC Talcher Kaniha has been pivotal in supporting national infrastructure projects through fly ash, contributing to road construction, soil conservation, and the manufacturing of ash products. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also optimizes the potential use of ash for diverse applications, promoting the country’s growth.”
NTPC Talcher Kaniha has been instrumental in supplying fly ash for various projects, including those led by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and the Odisha Government. Key road projects in Odisha, such as the Cuttack-Angul (NH55), Duburi-Chandikol-Balasor (NH53), Chandikol-Paradip (NH53), and Khordha Bypass (NH57), have benefitted from the station’s ash contributions.
The station’s outstanding performance is highlighted by a 67 LMT (Lakh Metric Tons) ash utilization in the current financial year, a 43.2% increase over the previous year. Achieving 100% ash utilization for FY 2024-25, surpassing last year’s rate of 68%, is a notable success. Notably, 45% of the ash was utilized for non-dyke applications, reinforcing the station’s objective of minimizing ash storage in ash ponds.
This accomplishment has been made possible through a collaborative effort between NTPC Talcher Kaniha, NHAI, the Odisha Government, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB), and Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL). These combined efforts have ensured the sustainable management and effective use of ash, supporting both environmental sustainability and national development goals.
Looking forward, Mr Sehgal highlighted the significant potential for selling fine fly ash and other ash-based products for the construction and cement industries. Additionally, NTPC Talcher Kaniha plans to export its high-quality ash to neighboring countries, which will further improve ash management efficiency, contribute to a cleaner environment, and support ongoing infrastructure development in India.
