In a fiery session held on Tuesday, the House bore witness to a heated exchange between Opposition MLAs Vijai Sardesai and Carlos Almeida, and Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar, alongside Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. The focal point of contention was the controversial Tanmar Power project, with opposition members demanding its abandonment.
Amidst the backdrop of a growing emphasis on non-conventional energy generation, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai raised a pointed question: Why the rush to push forward with the Tanmar project? He took the opportunity to remind Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar of his pre-election pledge, in conjunction with the TMC, to oppose the very project now under scrutiny.
Responding to the Opposition’s fervour, Power Minister Sudin Dhavalikar highlighted a comprehensive series of infrastructure initiatives underway or already completed across the State. These endeavours, encompassing the establishment of new sub-stations, transformer installations, and the conversion of both low-tension (LT) and high-tension (HT) transmission lines from overhead to underground, come with a combined investment of Rs 2,863 crore.
Dhavalikar also assured to conduct a thorough review of the alleged scams concerning bunch cabling. He indicated his intent to confer with Goa’s Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, who holds responsibility for finance matters, before providing a comprehensive response to the queries raised by the MLAs within the assembly.
As the assembly session continues, the debate over the Tanmar Power project remains at the forefront of discussions, reflecting the intricate interplay between energy needs, environmental concerns, and political commitments.
