Power supply scenario in State : CM strikes positive note
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 12 2013: Claiming that a number of measures are being taken up to improve the power distribution/supply scenario in the State, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today informed members of the House that power supply from 150 transformers installed in Thoubal and Khangabok Assembly Constituencies have been ceased as penalty for non-clearance of power dues by the consumers.

Responding to a call attention motion raised by Andro AC MLA Th Shyamkumar on the third day of the ongoing Monsoon session of the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly today, the Chief Minister, who also holds the Power portfolio, conveyed that specific drive to encourage the consumers clear power tax was launched simultaneously from his home constituency Thoubal followed by similar campaign in Khangabok AC.

Asserting that inspite of prior notification for the consumers to clear the due amount the response was not satisfactory subsequently prompting Electricity Department officials to stop power supply to 150 transformers in these Assembly segments, he further informed that every possible effect is being made to improve the power supply situation.

Earlier, MLA Shyamkumar highlighted that accidental contact with a droopy high tension power line in Bamon Kampu Takhok Loukon (paddy-field) had claimed three cattle (cows) on May 24 this year.

Citing alleged negligence by the Department officials for the cattle' death, he claimed that repeated intimations for straightening the loose HT line remained untended for a long time.

On being contacted the power department personnel cited unavailability of wire and electric poles to rectify the faulty structure but at the same time some other personnel insisted that if they are paid fetching the materials would not be a problem, the MLA charged and demanded that erring officials be pulled up and suitable action initiated against them.

While acknowledging that the faulty power line had caused death of the cows, the CM in his reply claimed that even though an additional electric pole was erected to straighten the drooping line before the cattle casualties, strong windstorm re-damaged the said poles.

Informing that officials concerned have reported the incident to Irilbung police, he also assured that adequate compensation would be paid to the cattle owner(s) .

On the otherhand, the CM confided to the members that from monthly expenditure of Rs 16 crore to purchase power every month, the power department currently needs Rs 18 crores for the same task.

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