Monsoon Rain eases power crisis in Karnataka: Minister

Bangalore, Sep 15 (UNI) Good rains in the catchment areas of major Hydel power projects have eased power crisis faced in Karnataka, Minister for Power K S Eswarappa said today.

Speaking to newsmen here, he said that "Karantaka has come out from the Power Crisis following incessant rains in the catchment areas of major hydal projects including Linganamakki, Mani and Supa which contribute over 60 per cent of the total power generation in the state." Mr Eshwarappa said that the Linganamakki Hydal Project, the chief source of power generation station in the state has sufficient back-up of water thanks to copious rains during two months. Two Thermal power projects- Raichur Thermal Power Station (RTPS) and the newly commissioned Bellary Thermal Power Station (BTPS) also generating power to their optimum level.

With the improved situation, Power Shut Down was withdrawn in the State.

Replying to a question, Mr Eshwarappa said that there is no proposal before the state government to hike the power tariff since all the five Electricity Supply Companies (ESCOMS) enjoying good financial position.

Stating that Government's decision of supply of free power to farmers upto 10 HP has come into force from August one this year and state Government has a proposal to collect power bill arrears of over Rs 2800 crores from the farming community in three annual instalments. "The decision to this effect will be taken soon" he added.

Replying to questions, the Minister said that the Transmission and Distribution loss has been brought down to 28 per cent from 36 per cent due to special measures taken. "Efforts are continuing to bring down the T&D loss further," he said.

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