Agartala 5 August, 2024: In a concerted effort to ensure uninterrupted power supply for consumers, the state government is implementing a multifaceted approach, emphasized Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha during a review meeting of the Power Department held today at Secretariat’s Room No. 2. The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining quality in the execution of various projects by both central and state governments and urged for swift resolution of any identified issues.
During the review, the Chief Minister stressed the necessity of balancing the load on power transformers, especially concerning the use of air conditioners (ACs). He called for increased public awareness regarding the responsible use of ACs and emphasized regular maintenance and repairs of electrical transformers. He also advocated for the development of renewable energy sources and increased use of solar power, encouraging both private and public buildings to adopt solar energy solutions.
To enhance the collection of electricity bills, the Chief Minister instructed the department to be more proactive, suggesting that camps be organized in each subdivision for bill collection. Additionally, he directed that issues reported via the helpline number 1912 be resolved promptly.
Power Minister Ratanlal Nath highlighted the need to raise consumer awareness about timely payment of electricity bills and called for measures against unauthorized electricity usage.
Secretary of the Power Department, Abhishek Singh, provided an update on the state’s current electricity supply, which stands at 457 MW against a demand of 362 MW. He outlined ongoing projects aimed at improving the state’s power infrastructure, including the upcoming 132 kV sub-station in Bishramganj and the ongoing expansion of the 132/33 kV sub-station in Bodhjungnagar under the Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti scheme. Significant investments are being made, with ₹243 lakh allocated for the Bodhjungnagar project and ₹34.73 crore for transmission lines from Surjamaninagar to Manarchak and Rukhiya.
Singh further mentioned the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, which involves converting LT lines to AB cable lines, establishing high voltage distribution systems, and installing smart and pre-paid meters, with a total investment of ₹802 crore. Additionally, a ₹1,155 crore project funded by the Asian Development Bank is underway to enhance the state’s power infrastructure.
The meeting also discussed other significant projects, including the Pradhan Mantri Janman and TREDA initiatives. Key officials present at the meeting included Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, the Chief Minister’s Secretary Dr. Pradeep Kumar Chakraborty, PWD Secretary Kiran Gitte, TSECL Managing Director Bishwanath Basu, and the Chief Minister’s OSD, Parmanand Banerjee.
