Small hydel projects not awarded to Chinese company: Minister

Thiruvananthapuram, June 29 (UNI) Kerala Electricity Minister A K Balan told the State Assembly that that no final decision had been taken yet on handing over 14 small hydel projects to a Chinese company.

Opposing the admissibility of an adjournment motion sought to be moved by Mr K Babu of the Congress, he said four small hydel projects had been completed in the State with Chinese assistance and their performance was satisfactory. The State could generate electricity worth Rs 10.5 crore from the four projects during the last three years.

The State Government was also keen on implementing 14 more small hydel projects in the State, Mr Balan said, adding that talks were being held with the Chinese company for implementing the projects as per the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 1998.

However, a final decision on awarding the contract to the Chinese company would be taken only after considering all the aspects, he added.

Earlier, Mr Babu said a global tender should be floated for the projects so as to bring down the cost.

UNI