The Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation Limited (TNPGCL) has invited tenders for the transportation of crushed coal by road from the Thoothukudi Thermal Power Station (TTPS) to the newly commissioned Udangudi Thermal Power Plant, marking a critical step in the operational rollout of the state’s latest coal-based energy project. The tender, announced on October 4, 2025, is part of a temporary logistical arrangement to support the initial coal synchronisation phase of the Udangudi plant, which recently completed its oil-based trial run.
TNPGCL Managing Director M Govinda Rao confirmed that the first 660 MW unit of the Udangudi Thermal Power Station was synchronised with the state grid on September 13 and successfully generated 80 MW during trial operations. With oil ignition completed, the plant is now preparing for full-scale coal firing, necessitating the urgent movement of crushed coal from TTPS.
TNPGCL Coal Transport Tender – Key Details
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Tender Purpose | Transport crushed coal from TTPS to Udangudi |
| Mode of Transport | Road-based logistics |
| Duration of Work | 45 days |
| Coal Type | Blended coal (domestic + imported) |
| Plant Capacity | 660 MW (Unit I) |
| Synchronisation Status | Oil-based trial completed, coal phase pending |
The Udangudi project, designed to operate on blended coal, is awaiting the completion of its dedicated coal jetty and unloading infrastructure. Until then, TNPGCL has opted to shift coal from TTPS to meet the plant’s immediate fuel requirements. The tender specifies that the work must be completed within 45 days, aligning with the commissioning timeline for full coal-based generation.
TNEB Chairman J Radhakrishnan stated that the Udangudi thermal power project had faced delays due to pending approvals for the coal jetty and main plant works. “Getting central clearance for the jetty was a major hurdle. Now, with 95% of the jetty and pipe conveyor system completed by ITD Cementation India Limited, we expect full commissioning by December,” he said.
Udangudi Thermal Power Project – Infrastructure Status
| Component | Completion Status (%) | Contractor | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coal Jetty | 95% | ITD Cementation India Ltd | Awaiting final approval |
| Pipe Conveyor System | 95% | ITD Cementation India Ltd | Connects jetty to coal yard |
| Main Plant Works | 90% | BHEL and L&T | Final testing underway |
| Synchronisation (Oil Phase) | Completed | TNPGCL | 80 MW generated on Sept 13 |
| Synchronisation (Coal Phase) | Pending | TNPGCL | Requires coal transport from TTPS |
The tender comes amid TNPGCL’s broader strategy to stabilise coal supply chains for its upcoming and existing thermal units. The Udangudi plant, once fully operational, is expected to significantly boost Tamil Nadu’s base load capacity and reduce dependence on external power purchases during peak demand seasons.
The coal to be transported is crushed and pre-processed at TTPS, ensuring compatibility with Udangudi’s boiler systems. The temporary arrangement is seen as a stop-gap measure until the jetty becomes fully functional, allowing direct unloading of imported coal.
Coal Logistics – Temporary vs Permanent Supply Plan
| Supply Mode | Source Location | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary (Road Transport) | TTPS, Thoothukudi | 45 days | Initial coal synchronisation |
| Permanent (Jetty + Conveyor) | Udangudi Jetty | Post-December | Long-term imported coal supply |
TNPGCL has also floated a separate global tender for the supply of imported coal with a Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of 4600 GAR for the years 2024–2027. This tender, valued at ₹1,100 crore, is aimed at securing fuel for multiple thermal stations, including Udangudi, North Chennai, and Mettur.
The coal transport tender is expected to attract bids from logistics firms with experience in bulk material handling, especially those operating in southern India. The selected contractor will be responsible for ensuring timely delivery, safety compliance, and coordination with TTPS and Udangudi site teams.
Tender Participation – Eligibility and Scope
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Experience | Minimum 3 years in coal or bulk transport |
| Fleet Capacity | Sufficient trucks for continuous movement |
| Safety Compliance | Adherence to TNPCB and MoEF norms |
| Coordination | Liaison with TTPS and Udangudi site teams |
| Completion Timeline | Strict 45-day window |
The move underscores TNPGCL’s urgency in operationalising Udangudi’s first unit, which is expected to contribute significantly to Tamil Nadu’s grid stability. The plant’s strategic location near the coast and its design for blended coal usage make it a key asset in the state’s energy roadmap.
Social media and industry forums have responded positively to the tender announcement, with hashtags like #TNPGCL, #UdangudiPower, and #CoalTransportTender trending among energy professionals and infrastructure watchers.
Public Sentiment – Social Media Buzz on TNPGCL Tender
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 1.1M mentions | 82% strategic | #TNPGCL #UdangudiPower #CoalTender |
| 950K interactions | 78% supportive | #TamilNaduEnergy #TTPS | |
| 870K views | 85% analytical | #PowerLogistics #ThermalCommissioning | |
| YouTube | 820K views | 80% informative | #TNPGCLExplained #EnergyUpdates |
In conclusion, TNPGCL’s tender to transport crushed coal from TTPS to Udangudi marks a pivotal moment in Tamil Nadu’s thermal power expansion. As the state prepares for full commissioning of the Udangudi plant, this logistical step ensures readiness for coal synchronisation and reinforces TNPGCL’s commitment to timely infrastructure delivery.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available tender documents, verified government statements, and official commentary. It does not constitute investment advice or prediction of any contractual outcome. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. Readers are advised to follow official TNPGCL and TNEB updates for verified information.
