Ramgarh: Patratu Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (PVUNL), a subsidiary of NTPC Limited in partnership with Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL), has moved to strengthen the supply and utilisation of fly ash discharged from each of its two operational 800MW units as part of its green initiatives for environmental conservation. Around 8,000 metric tonnes of fly ash is being discharged from the two operational units.The third 800MW unit is targeted for commissioning by the end of the present fiscal year.A K Sehgal, chief executive officer with the PVUNL, said, “The recently organised second ash users’ meet on ‘A Resilient Journey of Transformation from Waste to Wealth’ brought together policymakers, industry experts, researchers, academicians and ash users to promote sustainable and innovative utilisation of fly ash.”PVUNL’s initiatives include bottom ash handling, air-cooled condenser technology for water conservation, Rare Earth Element extraction, and skill development programmes for Self Help Groups to manufacture fly ash products. The company continues to adopt advanced technologies and innovative practices for environmentally sustainable solutions.An official said fly ash is being utilised by National Highways Authority of India projects, cement industries, ready-mix concrete plants and tile manufacturing units. As per government guidelines, dry ash is supplied free of cost within a 300km radius with the help and coordination of the railways.N Kalidas, director, Solid Waste Research and Ecological Balance, Visakhapatnam, said, “Around 250 million tonnes of fly ash is discharged from thermal power plants across the country, of which only 40% is utilised. The brick industry alone could absorb large quantities.”Lauding the railway ministry for its move to launch special wagons to transport fly ash, he added, “It would help promote fly ash depots near urban growth centres.”PVUNL is setting up a 4,000MW supercritical thermal power project at Patratu in phases.