The UPVKSS had called the strike to protest against the government’s decision of handing over the Sonbhadra-based Anpara C power project to a private company, Lanco. In September 2006, the state government had given a nod to Lanco to develop Anpara C project. Principal Secretary (home) J N Chamber said the Lanco would begin the construction on the site from tomorrow. Principal Secretary (power) V N Garg, Chairman of UPPCL G B Patnaik and state DGP Vikram Singh were also present at the press conference. “We all visited the site and reviewed the arrangements including the security preparations,” Chamber said. He added that the government is committed to ensure generation of power in the state.

UPPCL Chairman Patnaik said the 500X 2 MW project would cost Rs 4,500 crore. Lanco has prepared its construction plan. “The representatives of Lanco have also inspected the site,” he said.