Virbhadra for change in hydropower policy

Tribune News Service

Shimla, September 1

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today advocated policy changes to revive hydropower sector in the state.

Speaking at a seminar on revival of power sector, the CM, said, “The hydro power policy needs changes to harness the potential in the state. We will provide all assistance to boost the power sector as it is major source of revenue for the state.” The seminar was organised by the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPHCL) and power sector forum. Several power developers also expressed their views at the seminar.

He said the power sector was in the slowing down. mode, but it happened with every sector.

“Himachal is supplying power at a cheap rate to all consumers in the state,” the CM said.

Tarun Shridhar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power, said the state government had formed a committee to seek suggestions on reviving hydropower sector in the state, adding that most of the suggestions from power developers pertained to financial benefits.

AB Pandya, former Chairman, Central Water Commission, expressed concern over delay in clearances. He said active public support should be sought because it was the public which would ultimately benefit from the projects.Devesh Kumar, MD, HPPCL and chairman of the power forum, said hydropower policy should be renewed to address issues such as delay in clearances, add on cost of infrastructure development and taxes, royalty and free power and local NGO issues.

Of the 27,000 MW power potential identified, only 10,400 MW had been tapped so far, he said.