Power projects fail to deposit LADA money

Our Correspondent

Palampur, January 14

A large number of hydel power projects in Kangra and Chamba districts have failed to pay funds due under the Local Area Development Authority (LADA) and the catchment area development plan (CAT), in crores violating the provisions of agreement signed with the state government.

Over 30 per cent of such power projects have already come in production. Similar is the situation in other districts of the state.

As per the power policy of the state government, the power projects are bound to spend 1 per cent of the amount of the total generated power on the development of the area, where such projects are set up.

Information gathered by The Tribune revealed that a large number of projects had not deposited the LADA funds in the account of the state government. These funds are spent in the area, around the power projects site for its development, rehabilitation of locals, which include construction of roads, local paths, irrigation channels, drinking water schemes and other work for the benefit of residents. .

Sources said small projects were mostly paying the money well in time while the bigger power projects were the defaulters. Though the authorities concerned have time and again given reminders to such power projects, only a few have responded.

Besides, the non-payment of lease money by the hydel power companies has also become a matter of concern for the state government, despite reminders given by the DCs concerned, many companies are yet to sign the lease documents and deposit the lease money.