The Hindu reported that Kerala cabinet has approved the proposal to set up a 2000 MW thermal power plant in Orissa in collaboration with the Orissa government.

Mr Oommen Chandy chief minister of Kerala said that a special purpose vehicle would be formed for setting up the coal based plant. The two States would share the power generated at the plant on an equal basis.

The central government had allotted a block of coal field at Baitarani in Orissa for powering the plant. This was to be used before March 2012. The Kerala government had held discussion with the power secretary of Orissa government on setting up the plant.

The chief minister said that the cabinet had decided to grant INR 500 as allowance to police officials on duty during Onam celebrations. The mess fees of policemen on duty at Sabarimala during the pilgrimage season would be met by the government. The government would also meet the expenses of doctors and supporting staff on duty during the season. This would cost about INR 1 crore.

(Sourced from www.thehindu.com)