Union Minister Reviews Urban Development & Power Sector in Uttarakhand
Shri Manohar Lal emphasized the importance of his visit to understand local issues and strengthen Centre-State relations. He highlighted initiatives under Ease of Living to enhance consumer experience with electricity services and praised the state's efforts in electrifying Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) households under PM-JANMAN. He urged the state to expedite RDSS implementation, reduce AT&C losses to below 10%, and close the gap between the average cost of supply and the average revenue to ease financial burdens on DISCOMs.
The Minister announced that the 1,000 MW PSP project in Tehri is expected to be commissioned by December 2024, with 250 MW operational by August 2024. Other ongoing projects include Vishnugad Pipalkoti (444 MW) by THDC, Tapovan Vishnugad (520 MW) by NTPC, and Lakhwar MPP (300 MW) by UJVNL.
He also discussed Central Government initiatives to make hydroelectric and pumped storage projects viable, such as Hydro-power Purchase Obligation (HPO), tariff rationalization, and waivers of ISTS charges. Additionally, funds are provided for enabling infrastructure and flood moderation. States with established projects benefit from 12% free power and 1% Local Area Development Fund (LADF) alongside other advantages.