KOLKATA: Three dozen companies have emerged as prospective bidders in the current round of auctions for 27 coal blocks, from which 25% of the produce can be sold in the open market. These companies include Vedanta, Tata Steel, Ultra Tech Cement, Balco, Ambuja Cements, JSW Steel, Hindalco, Birla Corp, ACC Cement and Reliance Cement.

The coal ministry, which is conducting road shows in various cities, has prepared a list of prospective bidders for its 8th, 9th and 10th Tranches of auction.