Govt open to buying power from pvt parties
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, AUG 4
Power Minister Alexio Squeira on Wednesday said he would discuss with Chief Minister Digambar Kamat and take decision on purchasing power from the open market.
He was responding to a suggestions of Calangute MLA Agnel Fernandes, Quepem MLA Babu Kawlekar and Canacona MLA Vijay Pai Khot. They suggested that the government should purchase power from the open market to meet shortage of power during peak hours.
Raising the issue during “Zero Hour,” Fernandes said people as well as small scale industries are affected due to restrictions on release of power connections.
Kawlerkar pointed out that small industries are facing losses due to the decision of the government. There is a ban on power supply to industries for load of 50 KVA and above — the temporary restriction has been imposed in view of scarcity of power and it is applicable to all new industries.
The power minister said he was aware of the problem and was toying with the idea calling for a tender. The Calangute MLA pointed out that it would take a long time as people are suffering for the last two years.
The power minister said, he would need the approval of Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission if he wants to purchase power from the open market.
, but would accept suggestion made by the members abut the need to discuss it with the chief minister.
