Khandu advocates clear cut policy on NEWRA

Itanagar, July 12 (UNI) Without opposing the North East Water Resources Authority (NEWRA) policy, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu has clarified that there should be clear cut framework in the state's greater interest.

According to the official sources here today, Mr Khandu said he would like to know the guidelines under which the policy would be framed and its benefits to the people.

Mr Khandu made this statement in a meeting with a delegation of Central Water Commission (CWC) and Brahmaputra Board led by its chairman T G Antony Balan yesterday.

While seeking the help of the Board in tapping the vast water resources of the state, Mr Khandu said the state would be in a better position within 10 years by earning huge revenue from hydropower.

However, he enquired on the projects and other investments of the Board in the state and asked the CWC for more funds to utilise the water resources.

Though the Board was formed in the interest of North East states, but not a single project had been executed in the state so far, Water Resources Minister Tako Dabi said insisting on appropriate measures and change in the funding pattern.

Endorsing Mr Khandu's view, Mr Dabi stressed on proper guidelines so that Arunachal Pradesh would be the greatest beneficiary of NEWRA.

While highlighting the Board activities, CWC chairman Dr Balan informed that Rs 144 crore was incurred in different projects in the region and was likely to be enhanced.

UNI