Uttarakhand News: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met with Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday, requesting a permanent allocation of an additional 500 megawatts of electricity from central thermal power plants to Uttarakhand.
During the meeting, CM Dhami highlighted the state’s reliance on hydroelectric power, which accounts for over 55% of Uttarakhand’s total energy mix. He pointed out that the state’s dependence on hydroelectric sources leaves it vulnerable, as only a small portion of its energy comes from coal-based plants.
Challenges with Hydroelectric Projects
CM Dhami explained that the construction of hydroelectric projects capable of generating 4,800 MW has been stalled due to environmental concerns and ongoing legal cases in various courts. This stagnation has contributed to an increasing gap between energy demand and availability in the state. The Chief Minister expressed concern that the delay in these projects is hampering the state’s ability to meet its growing energy needs and sustain economic development.
Need for Immediate Energy Solutions
Dhami emphasized the urgent need for additional power resources to mitigate the immediate energy shortfall. He argued that the allocation of 500 MW from central thermal power plants would provide much-needed relief and ensure a more stable and reliable energy supply for Uttarakhand. This, in turn, would support the state’s development initiatives and improve the quality of life for its residents.
Potential Benefits of Additional Power Allocation
The additional power allocation would not only help bridge the current energy gap but also support Uttarakhand’s infrastructure and industrial growth. With a more reliable power supply, the state can attract more investments, boost industrial production, and ensure uninterrupted power for critical services such as healthcare and education.
Future Energy Plans
CM Dhami also discussed the state’s long-term energy strategy with Minister Khattar. He outlined plans to diversify Uttarakhand’s energy portfolio by incorporating more renewable energy sources and enhancing energy efficiency measures. Dhami stressed the importance of central support in achieving these goals and ensuring the state’s energy security.
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