Public opposing Tipaimukh dam : minister

Imphal, Mar 9 (UNI) Manipur Power Minister Gaikhangam informed the assembly that there were complaints from the public over construction of the Tipaimukh hydro electric project.

Replying to a question raised by S Gopal Singh, the minister said the Public Investment Board (PIB) had recommended that the project be placed before the cabinet committee on economic affairs (CCEA). The NEEPCO, the implementing agency, had initiated action for settlement through public hearing, the minister said.

The Citizens' Concern for Dam and Development had alleged that the North Eastern Electrical Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and PIB had violated the environment impact assessment notification of 1994. So far NEEPCO had not conducted a public hearing.

Replying to another query of N Biren, the minister said the power crisis faced by the state will lessen within three years and the government was trying to amend electricity laws so that it can have more teeth.

I Hemochandra and L Ibomcha raised the issue of stir launched by adhoc employees demanding regularisation. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said there were some legal problems in the matter.

O Joy Singh raised the issue of misappropriation of around Rs 5 crores by the north eastern trade finance investment company limited. The chief minister said the police was inquiring into the matter and the members of the company were found missing.

UNI NS PL SY DS1630