Load shedding inevitable, says Karnataka Chief Minister Kumaraswamy

Bangalore, Feb 22 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today observed that load shedding had become inevitable following non availability of required power in the state.

Speaking to newsmen here after cabinet meeting, Mr Kumaraswamy said the government's priority was to ensure that students were not put to inconvenience as examinations were fast approaching.' When we have no other choice including ruling out purchase of power from outside, then it will become inevitable to introduce load shedding,' he added.

Later talking to newsmen separately Energy Minister H D Revanna said the decision with regard to introduction of load shedding would be decided at the next cabinet meeting. The Chief Minister had directed the Chief Secretary to discuss the issue and chalk out a plan of action. Centre had also expressed helpless with regard to meeting the state's demand for supply of 500 mw power. The government would purchase 50 mw power from Power Trading Corporation, he revealed.

He said the daily energy consumption was 130 million units and the supply was 115 million units. Efforts were on to fill the gap by considering various proposals including purchase of power from outside, he added.

He said the state had produced 3600 mw power in last 36 years.

The government planned to generate 2000 mw power through new projects by investing Rs 4000 crores in next two years. "By May end we should be adding 500 mw power," he hoped.

UNI