How Can Manohar Lal Khattar Encourage J&K Govt to Maximize Hydro-Power Potential?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to tap into its vast hydro-power capabilities. This call for action includes enhancing local workforce skills and resolving pending project issues. The initiative promises to lower consumer tariffs and improve power supply across the Union Territory.
Key Takeaways
- Emphasis on hydro-power potential in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Call for skill development in local workforce.
- Proposal to waive water cess for hydro projects.
- Encouragement for prepaid smart metering implementation.
- Support from the Government of India for overall development.
Srinagar, June 12 (NationPress) Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday called on the Jammu and Kashmir government to effectively harness the extensive hydro-power potential within the Union Territory.
He emphasized that the UT should collaborate with the Centre for the skill enhancement and capacity building of the local workforce involved in hydro projects.
Additionally, he urged the UT administration to address the outstanding issues related to ongoing projects of NHPC to expedite their completion. He recommended that the UT consider eliminating the water cess imposed on hydro projects, which would aid in lowering power supply costs and ultimately reduce tariffs for consumers.
The Union Minister reassured the continued support and cooperation of the Government of India for the overall development of the UT and expressed his wishes for the well-being of its residents.
He also inaugurated numerous projects aimed at expanding the power grid in the UT to guarantee improved power supply.
He urged the UT to develop plans for capacity augmentation in line with the Resource Adequacy plan. He praised the UT for its dedicated efforts in decreasing power purchase costs and bridging the gap between these costs and the revenue generated, which would enhance the finances of the Power Utilities and facilitate reliable power supply in J&K.
Furthermore, he advised the UT to implement prepaid smart metering projects promptly, starting with government establishments and later extending to commercial and industrial consumers. Based on the outcomes and demonstrated benefits, the smart meters could then be introduced to other consumer categories.
He noted that the UT should accelerate the settlement of pending dues from government departments and aim to install prepaid meters in all government establishments and colonies by August 2025.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah along with senior officials from the Union Territory and representatives of state power utilities and Central public sector enterprises attended the meeting with the Union Minister.
Manohar Lal Khattar assessed the urban development and power sector situation in Jammu & Kashmir. The UT also shared its concerns and significant achievements related to urban and power sectors along with potential solutions to meet future demands.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for visiting Srinagar to review issues concerning the urban and power sectors in the UT and underscored the major challenges faced by the region.
The UT requested assistance from the Centre for upgrading the power distribution and transmission sectors, emphasizing its commitment to improving the sector.
Point of View
The call by Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar for the Jammu and Kashmir government to optimize its hydro-power resources is a strategic move. It reflects a commitment to not only bolster the local economy but also improve energy reliability in the region. Such initiatives are vital for sustainable development and should be pursued vigorously.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of hydro-power in Jammu and Kashmir?
Hydro-power is crucial for Jammu and Kashmir as it can significantly reduce energy costs, provide a reliable power supply, and create job opportunities for local residents.
How will skill development be addressed in hydro projects?
The Jammu and Kashmir government is encouraged to collaborate with the Centre for capacity building and skill enhancement of the local workforce involved in hydro-power projects.
What are the benefits of waiving the water cess on hydro projects?
Waiving the water cess could lower the operational costs of hydro projects, leading to reduced electricity tariffs for consumers.
What is the timeline for implementing smart metering in J&K?
The Union Minister advised that prepaid smart metering should be executed in a timely manner, initially for government establishments, with completion aimed by August 2025.
Who attended the meeting with the Union Minister?
The meeting included J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, senior officials from the Union Territory, and representatives from state power utilities and Central public sector enterprises.
