Nalco may start production at expanded unit by month-end

Aluminium major Nalco may start commercial production at its 4.6-lakh tonnes per annum expanded unit in Orissa by the end of this month.     

"Nalco's second phase expansion is on stream and is likely to be completed by September-end," Mines Minister B K Handique told reporters here today on the sidelines of the Central Geological Programming Board meeting.     

The company is augmenting its 3.5-lakh tonnes pa smelter in phases and the commercial production from the 4.6 lakh tonnes expanded unit is scheduled to start by September end. The expansion has cost Nalco about Rs 4,400 crore.    

On any further disinvestment proposal for the aluminium major and Hindustan Copper, Handique said, "This is under examination by the Ministry of Disinvestment and so far there is no such decision."     

The government has already divested about 13 per cent of its stake in the Navratna aluminum producer and 0.41 per cent in copper firm Hindustan Copper. Both, the companies are listed on the bourses.     

About a new legislation to give effect to the National Mineral Policy, which was one of the important action point in the 100-day agenda of the Ministry, Handique said, "It is expected that the legislation will be ready for introduction in Parliament in winter session."