# Talcher

Talcher, known as the "City Of Black Diamond" in Odisha, is a major industrial coal city and municipality. Talcher is one of the 4 sub-divisions of Angul district in the Indian state of Odisha.

## History

During the British Raj Talcher was the capital of Talcher State, one of the princely states of the Eastern States Agency.
Talcher City has a rich historical background that can be traced back to ancient times. The region surrounding Talcher has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as archaeological evidence suggests. The city has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties and empires over the centuries.
During ancient times, Talcher and its surrounding areas were part of the Kalinga region, which was ruled by the Kalinga dynasty. The area had close connections with the Maurya Empire, with Emperor Ashoka's famous Kalinga War taking place nearby in the 3rd century BCE. The war had a profound impact on Ashoka, leading to his conversion to Buddhism and subsequent advocacy for peace and non-violence.
In medieval times, Talcher came under the control of various regional powers. It was ruled by the Bhanja dynasty, a local ruling family, during the 13th and 14th centuries. Later, the region was dominated by the Gajapati dynasty, who ruled over the medieval Kalinga kingdom.
The rulers of Talcher:-
* Narahari Singh (1471 - 1480 CE)
* Udayanarayana Singh (1480 - 1520)
Govind Charan Singh (1520 - 1527)
* Padmanabha Birabara Harichandan (1575 - 1598)
* Chakradhar Birabara Harichandan (1598 - 1651)
* Gopinath Birabara Harichandan (1651 - 1711)
* Ramchandra Birabara Harichandan (1711 - 1729)
* Pitambar Birabara Harichandan (1729 - 1740)
* Lal Singh (1740 - 1752)
* Krishna Chandra Birabara Harichandan (1752 - 1766)
* Ramchandra (Ayadi) Birabara Harichandan (1766 - 1774)
* Nimai Charan Champati Birabara Harichandan (1774 - 1778)
* Bhagirathi Birabara Harichandan (1778 - 1846)
* Dayanidhi Birabara Harichandan Mahapatra (1846 - 1873)
* Ramchandra Deba Birabara Harichandan Mahapatra (1873 - 18 Dec 1891)
* Kishor Chandra Deba Birabara Harichandan Mahapatra (18 Dec 1891 - 7 Nov 1945)
* Hrudaya Chandra Deba Birabara
* Harichandan Mahapatra (7 Nov 1945 – 1 January 1948)
With the arrival of the British in India, Talcher and its surrounding areas came under their influence. The British recognized the strategic importance of the region due to the presence of extensive coal reserves. Coal mining activities gained momentum during the colonial era, and the Talcher Coalfields became a vital source of coal for British industries.
After India gained independence in 1947, the coal mines in Talcher came under the control of the Indian government. The development of the coal mining industry led to the growth of Talcher as an industrial center. Power generation, steel manufacturing, and other associated industries also flourished in the region.
Over the years, Talcher City has undergone significant development and urbanization. It has witnessed the establishment of modern infrastructure, including educational institutions, hospitals, and transportation networks, to cater to the growing population and industrial needs.
Today, Talcher City stands as a prominent industrial hub, primarily known for its coal mining operations and power generation facilities. Its historical legacy, combined with its economic significance, has contributed to the city's growth and prominence in the Angul district of Odisha.

## Demographics

As of the 2011 India census, Talcher had a population of 40,841. Males constitute 55% of the population and females 45%. Talcher has an average literacy rate of 75%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 80%, and female literacy is 62%. In Talcher, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age.

## Climate

Talcher has been ranked 4th best “National Clean Air City” under (Category 3 population under 3 lakhs cities) in India.

## Transport
### Railways

Talcher railway station is a railway station on the East Coast Railway network in the state of Odisha, India. It serves Talcher city. Its code is TLHR. It has two platforms. Passenger, MEMU, Express and Superfast trains halt at Talcher railway station.

## Talcher Coal Mines

Talcher Coalfield is located in Talcher Of Angul district in the Indian state of Odisha, in the valley of the Brahmani.

## Economy

The Talcher Thermal Power Station, also known as Talcher Super Thermal Power Station (TSTPS), is a prominent thermal power plant located in Talcher, Odisha, India. It is operated by the National Thermal Power Corporation
(NTPC), which is a government-owned power utility company in India. The Talcher Thermal Power Station plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the state and the country. The power station has a total installed capacity of 4600 megawatts (MW) and consists of multiple units equipped with advanced supercritical and subcritical technologies. The power station primarily relies on coal as a fuel source, which is abundant in the nearby Talcher Coalfield. The coal is sourced from the Talcher Coalfield, transported to the power station, and used to generate electricity through the combustion process. The power generated at Talcher Thermal Power Station is then supplied to the state grid for distribution to various consumers. The Talcher Thermal Power Station has significantly contributed to the growth and development of the region. It has created numerous job opportunities for the local population, both directly and indirectly, thus improving the socio-economic conditions of the area. The power station's operation and maintenance require a skilled workforce, and the NTPC provides training and employment opportunities to the local community. However, it is important to note that the operation of thermal power plants, including Talcher Thermal Power Station, raises environmental concerns. The burning of coal releases various pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts have been made to address these concerns through the installation of emission control technologies and the adoption of cleaner practices. The power station is continually working towards reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable energy generation. In conclusion, the Talcher Thermal Power Station in Talcher, Odisha, is a significant thermal power plant operated by the NTPC. It plays a crucial role in meeting the energy requirements of the state and the country. While it contributes to economic development and job creation, efforts are being made to mitigate its environmental impact through the adoption of cleaner technologies. The Talcher Thermal Power Station remains an integral part of the energy infrastructure, supporting the region's power needs and driving progress in the area.
The Heavy Water Board (HWB) facilities in Talcher, located in the Angul District of Odisha, are involved in several activities related to the production of specialty chemicals and isotopes for nuclear fuel use. Here are the main operations carried out by HWB Facilities in Talcher: Production of Specialty Chemicals: The facility produces various specialty chemicals, including organophosphorus solvents like D2EHPA (Di-2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid), TOPO (Tri-n-octylphosphine oxide), TAPO (Tri-n-amylphosphine oxide), and DNPPA (Di-n-butylphenyl phosphoric acid). These chemicals are produced for in-house consumption, likely for use in nuclear fuel cycle processes. Enrichment of Boron Isotopes: HWB Talcher is involved in the enrichment of boron isotopes, specifically Boron-10 and Boron-11. Enrichment is the process of increasing the concentration of a particular isotope in a material.
The enriched boron isotopes produced at Talcher may have applications in nuclear reactors or other nuclear-related activities. Production of Boron Tri-fluoride & Calcium Fluoride Complex: The facility also produces Boron Tri-fluoride & calcium fluoride complex (BF3CaF2) for in-house consumption. This complex may be used in various nuclear fuel cycle processes or other applications requiring boron compounds. Conversion Unit: The HWB facility in Talcher includes a conversion unit. This unit is responsible for converting Boron Tri-fluoride Di-Ethyl Ether complex [BF3.O(C2H5)2], which contains enriched 10B (Boron-10) of 65% isotopic purity, to Potassium tetra-fluoro borate (KBF4). The conversion process may be part of the production cycle or purification process for boron compounds used in nuclear applications. These activities at the HWB Facilities in Talcher are significant for supporting nuclear fuel cycle processes, specialty chemical production, and isotopic enrichment. They contribute to the overall operations and objectives of the Heavy Water Board in India.
The Backbone of Coal Transportation: The garage industry in Talcher serves as the backbone of the coal transportation network in the region. With vast coal reserves and the presence of the Talcher Thermal Power Plant, there is a constant demand for the transportation of coal from the mines to the power plant. The garages in Talcher provide the necessary logistics support, maintaining a fleet of trucks, trailers, and vehicles to transport the coal efficiently and reliably. Employment Opportunities: The garage industry in Talcher is a significant source of employment for the local population. More than one lakh (100,000) families rely on this industry for their livelihoods. The industry offers diverse job opportunities, including truck drivers, mechanics, technicians, fuel station staff, spare parts suppliers, and administrative personnel. These jobs provide a means of income and stability for numerous families, contributing to the economic growth and well-being of the region. Vehicle Maintenance and Repair: To ensure smooth coal transportation, the garages in Talcher play a vital role in vehicle maintenance and repair. They provide services ranging from routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs to fueling and spare parts supply. Skilled mechanics and technicians work diligently to keep the transportation fleet in optimal condition, minimizing downtime and ensuring the seamless flow of coal from the mines to the power plant. Ancillary Businesses: The garage industry in Talcher has given rise to various ancillary businesses that support the transportation operations. Local entrepreneurs have established businesses related to vehicle spare parts supply, tire services, vehicle cleaning, and other vehicle-related services. These businesses not only cater to the needs of the garage industry but also serve the broader community, contributing to the local economy. Challenges and Future Prospects: While the garage industry in Talcher thrives, it also faces challenges. The transportation of coal involves demanding conditions, and the garages must adapt to meet these challenges. Keeping up with changing emission norms, adopting modern technologies, and promoting environmental sustainability are key aspects for the future of the garage industry in Talcher. Additionally, exploring opportunities for diversification, such as providing services for other industries or expanding into related sectors, can ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of the industry. Conclusion: The garage industry in Talcher serves as a vital link in the coal transportation chain, connecting the mines to the Talcher Thermal Power Plant. It provides employment and livelihood opportunities for a significant number of families, supporting the local economy. The industry's contribution to vehicle maintenance, repair services, and ancillary businesses further strengthens its impact on the region. As the garage industry evolves, it must embrace innovation, sustainability, and diversification to ensure a bright and prosperous future for Talcher's coal transportation sector and the families it sustains.
The Talcher Fertilizer Project is a major initiative in the fertilizer sector in India. The project involves the construction of a coal-based ammonia-urea fertilizer complex in Talcher. The project aims to enhance the domestic production of urea, which is a key component in the agricultural sector for the production of fertilizers. By increasing domestic production, India aims to reduce its dependence on imported urea and achieve self-sufficiency in the fertilizer sector. Here are some key details about the Talcher Fertilizer Project: Promoters: The project is being implemented by Talcher Fertilizers Limited (TFL), a joint venture between three public sector companies: Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd (RCF), Coal India Limited (CIL), and Fertilizer Corporation of India Limited (FCIL). Capacity: The proposed fertilizer complex will have an annual production capacity of 1.27 million metric tons of urea. It will consist of a coal gasification-based ammonia plant and a urea plant. Technology: The Talcher Fertilizer Project will use advanced coal gasification technology to convert coal into synthesis gas (syngas), which will be further processed to produce ammonia. The ammonia will then be converted into urea through a urea plant. Feedstock: The project will utilize domestic coal reserves from the Talcher coalfield as the primary feedstock. The coal gasification process will help convert the coal into usable gas for the production of ammonia. Employment and Economic Impact: The project is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local population during the construction and operational phases. It will also contribute to the overall economic development of the region. The Talcher Fertilizer Project is considered significant in India's efforts to boost indigenous fertilizer production and reduce imports. It aligns with the country's focus on promoting self-sufficiency in key sectors and achieving energy independence through the utilization of domestic coal reserves.
Talcher City is home to several notable companies and organizations that contribute to its economy and industrial growth. Here are some examples:
1) National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC): NTPC operates the Talcher Thermal Power Station, one of the largest thermal power plants in Odisha, located in Talcher. It plays a crucial role in power generation and contributes significantly to the region's electricity supply.
2) Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL): MCL is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL) and operates several coal mines in the Talcher Coalfield. It is one of the major coal mining companies in India and plays a significant role in the coal industry in Talcher.
3) NALCO (National Aluminium Company Limited): NALCO operates an aluminum smelter plant in Angul, which is in close proximity to Talcher City. The plant utilizes electricity generated from the nearby power plants, including the Talcher Thermal Power Station.
4) Talcher Fertilizers Limited (TFL): TFL is a joint venture between Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd (RCF), Coal India Limited (CIL), and Fertilizer Corporation of India Limited (FCIL). It is responsible for the construction and operation of the Talcher Fertilizer Project, which aims to enhance domestic urea production in India.
5) Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC): OMC is a state-owned mining company that has various mining operations across Odisha. It plays a significant role in the mining sector, including coal mining, and has operations in Talcher. These are just a few examples of notable companies and organizations operating in and around Talcher City. The city's industrial landscape encompasses various sectors, including coal mining, power generation, aluminum smelting, steel manufacturing, and fertilizers, making it an important economic center in the region.