Daijiworld Media Network-Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, May 20: New administrative office of Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (MESCOM) ‘MESCOM Bhavan’ built at a cost of Rs 25 crore was inaugurated by power minister, D K Shivakumar here at Bejai on Thursday, May 19.
Post inauguration at a stage programme held at Townhall, Shivakumar lauded the service sector of Dakshina Kannada district and said, “Prior to coming here, I visited Shringeri temple to pray for rains. When I took charge of power ministry, many of my well wishers suggested me not to take this portfolio as there are many problems and challenges in this ministry. But I took it as a challenge. We need 8000 MW (mega watt) to 10,000 MW power per day. We need to increase the production of power but there are oppositions by the environmentalists for various reasons.”
“I will not say it’s wrong but being in the position, I have to do something about it. So I brought the solar policy in state. Under this policy, we will be able to produce 5000 MW power by the end of 2018. We have signed an agreement with National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC). One of the biggest solar parks, Pavagada solar park will come up in nearly 12,000 acres of land. This will reduce power charges to Rs 3.30 a unit. None of the land is acquired, instead taken on lease for 30 years. Seeing the demands of the district, we will consider taking up such project in Dakshina Kannada too.” he added.
“There were about 25000 vacancies in electricity department out of which we have filled 12000 vacancies and rest 12000 plus will be recruited in the coming six months. In Bengaluru, Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) has started a complaint section from where the problems will be monitored and solved within few minutes. We will start this service in Mangaluru too. We will support installation of solar panels of any length provided there is permanent infrastructure.” he said.
“Rs 8000 crore concession is given to farmers. It is the aim of our government to give 5 to 6 hours electricity to farmers during the day and 24/7 supply to all households across the state in coming one and half years. It is crucial time for the state as we face drought. We are trying to provide power despite all the difficulties. We have not purchased power for more than Rs 5.8 per unit. I assure you to give the best service and this government will serve you in 2018 as well,” he added.
Mangaluru south MLA J R Lobo urged the minister to provide 24/7 electricity to the district. He also appealed to make a policy so that the new appointed linemen do not take transfer within four days causing trouble to people. He further requested for the sanction of Rs 6 crore for the underground cabling.
District in charge minister B Ramanath Rai said, “Electricity is a basic necessity. But there were days when there was no electricity available for all. This shows that we have developed to a great extent as compared to earlier. There is a need to make Dakshina Kannada a solar district. I wish MESCOM continues to give good service in future too.”
MLC, Ivan D'souza, mayor Harinath, Kripa Alva, Divya Prabha Gowda and others were present.