Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Minister for Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar in New Delhi. He discuss several key issues concerning the state, including an increase in the share of free electricity royalty from hydropower projects and financial support for various development initiatives.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Sukhu urged the Centre to enhance Himachal Pradesh’s share of free power royalty from hydropower projects operated by Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs). He specifically highlighted projects that have completed their initial 12-year operational period and requested an increase in the royalty beyond the existing 12 percent free power allocation to the state.
The Chief Minister also sought a 50 percent free power share for Himachal Pradesh from the 180 MW Baira-Siul Hydroelectric Project, stating that the project has completed 44 years of operation and the state deserves a larger share of its benefits.
Another major issue raised during the meeting was the delay in the payment of energy arrears related to Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects. Sukhu said that the people of Himachal Pradesh had borne displacement and environmental consequences during the construction of these projects and should receive their rightful dues.
He demanded the settlement of 13,066 million units of pending energy arrears up to October 31, 2011, with six percent interest, subject to the consent of Haryana and Punjab. According to the Chief Minister, the total outstanding amount, including interest, now stands at approximately ₹7,784 crore.
Sukhu also reiterated Himachal Pradesh’s legitimate claim over the Shanan Hydroelectric Project, emphasizing the state's rights and interests in the matter.
