TNI Bureau: The coal blocks in Odisha have been under the scanner after the exposure of a suspected multi-crore coalgate. Baitarani West coal block is the latest to join the disgraced list, as the Union Coal Ministry de-allocated it on the basis of recommendations made by the Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG).

The de-allocation of Baitarani West coal block came on heels of the closure of Utkal-D and Mandakini-B coal blocks owned by Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and New Patrapada coal block earlier.

The Baitarani West coal block in Talcher, failed to utilize the coal resources. The company, Baitarani West Coal Company Ltd (BWCCL) did not even try to preliminary work like forest and environment clearance and land acquisition. This coal block was allocated to Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC), Gujarat Power Corporation Ltd. (GPCL) and Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) in July 2007.