PM assures full support to empower JK

Kishtwar, J&K Apr 26: Assuring full support to the Jammu and Kashmir government in exploiting the huge hydro-power potential, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today announced that work on all the pipeline electricity projects in the state will be started soon.

Dedicating the 390 MW Dul-Hasti power project in Kishtwar to the nation, Dr Singh noted that the hydro-electricity potential of the state, if exploited properly, would make Jammu and Kashmir a prosperous state.

''There is about 14,000 to 15,000 MW hydro power potential, but till now only 1,865 MW electricity is being produced in the state,'' he said, adding that 90 per cent potential is yet to be harvested.

''The outlook of J&K can be changed if its water resources are exploited properly,'' Dr Singh said, asserting that the power projects will also generate job opportunities for the locals.

The Prime Minister assured that work on all the pipeline projects, including 100 MW Pakal Dul, 600 MW Kiru and 520 MW Kawar on the Chenab river in Kishtwar, would be started soon.

Taking note of cost escalation due to delays in the projects, Dr Singh stressed on completion of developmental projects in the stipulated period.

UNI