WB to support HP in hydro power generation: Dhumal

Shimla, Aug 21 (UNI) The World Bank would support Himachal Pradesh in the hydro power generation by extending its assistance for integrated management of catchment areas, river basin planning, development and management.

This was stated by Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal after a meeting with the officials of World Bank lead by Salman Zahir, Manager, Energy Development, South East Asia, here today.

The Chief Minister said the state was keen to associate World Bank with its hydro power generation activities besides ongoing infrastructure building activities and would also explore the possibilities of similar cooperation in the transmission of power, environment protection and improvement of urban transportation system in major towns of the state.

Mr Dhumal said that the state government was working on formulation of a Master Plan under the guidance of the World Bank authorities so that sustainable policy guidelines were adopted to protect the precious environment of the state.

He emphasised the need for active participation of the World Bank in strengthening the transmission of energy system so that state was benefitted with its expertise.

Manager of world bank, Salman Zahir said that the World Bank would be extending support for further development of the state's capacity and institutions so that state was able to develop and utilise its full hydropower potential.

UNI XC PS JS2037