UP seeks Japanese help for power

The state government has also sought Japanese help for a mass rapid transport system (MRTS) for Lucknow.

The help sought for the Anpara D is to the tune of Rs 5,500 crore. Anpara A and B, with capacity of 1,560-Mw, were financed by Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC). Bids for the award of contract for Anpara C will be opened on May 22.

The JBIC had also financed the 600-KV transmission line from Anpara to Bareilly and Agra.

A six-member delegation led by Japanese Embassy's First Secretary Toyu Fuku met state Power Minister Shivpal Singh Yadav, Principal Secretary (Energy) Ashok Khurana and Speaker Mata Prasad Pandey. The delegation comprised several industrialists including ITCHU India Chairman Yama Moto. Fuku said the delegation met the state officials and MRTS.

"We have asked UP to send a letter to the government of Japan," he said. The state officials had raised the matter with Japan's Vice Finance Minister when he visited the state on April 28.

Khurana said UP would ask Japan to complete the feasibility report for Anpara D in 8 to 10 months so that work could be started at the earliest.

"'Normally they take three to five years for the feasibility report," he said, adding that the Japanese delegation had agreed to expedite the preparation of feasibility report for Anpara D.