CM moots PPP model for power sector
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 26 2012:
Chief Minister O Ibobi who has already put power as one of the key priority sectors for the State Government has stated that process for initiating a Public Private Partnership (PPP) on it has begun.
At present Manipur Electricity Department is supplying power for six to eight hours per day to the general public, an improving sign compared to the abysmal three to four hours that were supplied earlier.
"The Government is trying to bring about some path breaking changes in Manipur.
One of our priority sectors is power.
We have initiated a process of total change in the sector by PPP," the Chief Minister who also holds the Power portfolio, said.
Initial offers have already been floated to invite capable and specialized private energy entities in Manipur, he said while addressing a 'Home Coming'(rebels surrender) ceremony at the headquarters of IG Assam Rifles at Mantripukhri here today.
Ibobi Singh, who lamented that the State lagging behind in economic development due to the prolonged conflict situation, said his Government has already identified a number of potential and feasible locations for setting up Hydro Projects.
"The aim is to invite non-Government expertise and capital to harness the hydel potential of our State.
We have also started a comprehensive distribution reforms.
But we must understand that all these efforts would be subject to prevailing situation in the State," he said.
Ibobi Singh, who inaugurated five power sub-stations, all in Imphal, on September 21 said private entrepreneurs have always been avoiding Manipur due to the conflict situation.
" In view of our recent initiatives in power sector many private companies seem to be showing keen interest in Manipur.This has encouraged us.
We hope that these reforms would continue and not get discouraged by the typical law and order problems of Manipur," the CM said.
"Peace initiatives need to be carried forward.
Only then can we expect change and economic development.
People have realized this truth.
No wonder, over the past many years we have witnessed political stability and steady improvement in conflict situation in Manipur.
However it is yet to reach a satisfactory level.
This challenge is still before us," he added.