Since the Mahanadi Coalfields in Orissa has failed to supply the contracted amount of coal to the State-run power generation company Mahagenco, it is once again facing acute coal shortage.

As a result, in spite of increase in installed capacity by 1,500 mw in last one year, generation still remains at earlier levels between 4,600 mw and 4,800 mw.

According to a top Mahagenco official in Mumbai, the company has decided to import more coal to bridge the gap. As per norms of Central Electricity Authority, a power plant should have more than 14 days worth of coal stock. If the stock is less than seven days, it is critical and in case of less than four days stock it is supercritical.

Three of the seven power plants Chandrapur, Khaparkheda and Koradi had only two days' worth of stock. Parli has the highest at six days. However, due to water shortage, the plant is operating at only 50 per cent capacity.

Paras has four days while Bhusawal and Nashik have five days each. JH Bobde Deputy Chief Engineer told a leading newspaper that MCL and railways were blaming each other for less supply.