Korba : A public hearing convened by the for the proposed capacity expansion of (KPL) at Patadi concluded successfully on Friday, drawing the participation of thousands of local residents. An overwhelming 95% of attendees expressed support for the project, citing prospects of development, employment and self-employment opportunities in the region.
The hearing, mandated as part of the environmental clearance process, was organised on February 27, 2026, at the Government School playground in Sargbundiya village under Barpali tehsil of district. The proposal pertains to the expansion of KPL’s power generation capacity by 1,600 MW (two units of 800 MW each).
The proceedings were presided over by Additional District Collector , with the presence of Regional Officer of the Environment Board , Sub-Divisional Magistrate , Executive Engineer , and other senior administrative officials.
Representing , Head of Environment presented a detailed overview of the proposed expansion, including environmental safeguards, employment potential and community development plans. The hearing lasted approximately two and a half hours.
Residents from 12 villages, including Khoddl, Patadi, Sargbundiya, Pehnda, Baridih and Tilkeja, participated in large numbers. Villagers raised issues related to local development, jobs, self-employment and infrastructure. The presiding officer assured that all concerns and suggestions would be duly examined in the presence of company officials.
Several elected representatives and sarpanches voiced their support, noting that the expansion would open new avenues of growth and livelihood. Local speakers highlighted improvements already visible in the area, including better roads, solar street lighting, drinking water supply, educational support and health initiatives.
A resident, , stated that the company’s presence had accelerated development works in nearby villages, particularly in education and basic infrastructure. Echoing similar sentiments, Pehnda sarpanch said that Adani Foundation’s interventions had significantly improved access to health, education and livelihoods across the region.
It was noted that KPL has been operating 600 MW (two 300 MW sub-critical units) at Barpali for nearly 15 years. Through , the company has been implementing programmes in education, healthcare, livelihood enhancement and infrastructure development across more than 12 villages, benefiting a population of over 25,000.
Concluding the hearing, Project Head said the expansion would generate large-scale employment while strengthening social infrastructure in surrounding villages. He thanked the local community, officials and stakeholders for their constructive participation and support.
The successful public hearing was met with visible satisfaction among attendees, who expressed hope that the proposed expansion would usher in sustained economic and social development in the region.
