Utran Power House Cooling Tower Set for Demolition on March 21

The cooling tower of the old 135 MW plant at the Utran Power Station in Surat is scheduled for demolition on March 21, 2023, in accordance with Central Government guidelines. These guidelines dictate that power plants must be dismantled after a specified number of years in operation. The 85-meter-tall RCC cooling tower will be brought down using controlled blasting techniques.

The demolition is set to take place between 11 am and 11:30 am, with the actual blasting time expected to last only 7 to 8 seconds. The entire process, however, may take up to 30 to 40 minutes to complete. Residents in surrounding areas have been advised to take safety precautions, including keeping doors and windows closed due to the potential for dust clouds and vortex-like air pressure for five to ten minutes following the blast.

The dismantling process for the old plant has been ongoing for two years. A similar controlled blasting operation was carried out in Noida three months ago. The tower, built in 1993 and dismantled in 2017, has a 70-meter diameter land side. The demolition will require the use of 250 kg of commercial explosives.

Officials have advised residents that dust will likely be visible in the air for 20 to 25 minutes following the collapse, but no other major effects are expected. Authorities have also requested that locals refrain from spreading rumors or fear during this time.