Peninsular hydro electric projects: Centre to convene talks

Chennai, Sep 5 (UNI) The Centre will convene Secretary-level talks between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in New Delhi in the next 15 days to expedite the four peninsular hydro electric power projects and explore the hydro electric power potential of the two States.

''I will be happy to facilitate resumption of talks between the two States to ensure that the project takes off by the end of the 11th five-year plan period,'' Union Power Secretary Anil Razdan said, speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony for the thermal power project at Vallur in neighbouring Thiruvallur district.

The hydro electric power projects across river Cauvery were at Rasimanal and Hogenekkal in Tamil Nadu, and Mekedatu and Shivanasamudram in Karnataka. Of the four projects, the more than 100-years-old Shivanasamudram would have capacity addition, but the bone of contention between the two States was sharing of power generated at the Shivanasamudram plant.

Mr Razdan said it was unfortunate that capacity addition was not in tune with the economic growth. The Union Power Ministry had set a target of 78,000 MW of power as capacity addition in the 11th plan, which was four to five times more than in any five-year period.

''Considering the rising power requirements, we need to have capacity additions. The Centre will also encourage private entrepreneurs to set up power plants to meet the target,'' he added.

Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary L Tripathi, who was also present, urged the Centre to clear the four peninsular hydro power projects to augment power generation.

UNI