ISLAMABAD: Member of the Science and Technology Planning Commission Dr Samar Mubarakmand on Monday said that at least 1000 MW can be generated out of Thar Coal reserves.
Talking to a private news channel, he said that at least, $115 billion are required to materialise this project.
He added that Thar contains 175 billion ton reserves of coal, out of which 1000 MW electric power may be generated for the next 30 years.
To a question, he said that Thar coal project will become operational in December 2013 and bring prosperity in the country.
"Pakistan has enough coal reserves that can provide electricity to the country for more than 500 years," he said.
He said that development work was in progress and the first 50 megawatts (MW) gasified project had almost been completed.
He said that the project was to cost Rs 8.898 billion with a foreign exchange component of Rs 5.847 billion that was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council last year.
To another question, Dr Mubarakmand said that the success of the Thar coal project would lead to investment from leading international companies.
He said that several foreign companies wanted to participate in the project and had shown interest.
He said that these companies are just waiting for the results of the maiden 50 MW pilot project adding that if the pilot project was successful, a barrage of investment would automatically follow.
He said that coal in Thar mines could not be extricated but used to manufacture electric power, diesel and fertilisers in the reserves.
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