Maha seeks Rs 10,000 cr from Centre for power infrastructure

Maharashtra government has sought about Rs 10,000 crore from the Centre to create infrastructure for improving efficiency in power generation and distribution.
"We want to create infrastructure in the state for efficient power generation and supply. For this we have sought Central government assistance of Rs 10,000 crore under the Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana," Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told reporters after a 5-hour-long meeting here to take a review of the power situation in the state.
The meeting was attended by Union Coal Minister Piyush Goyal and officials of the state utilities Mahavitaran, Mahagenco, and Mahatransco as well as of Coal India, Western Coalfields Ltd, and South Eastern Coalfields Ltd.

Fadnavis said the government had undertaken a project for feeder separation whereby electricity supply systems for agriculture consumers are not linked to non-farm supply.
"This will not only help in reducing power theft but also reduce load-shedding and improve collection. We are also planning to appoint feeder managers to monitor power supply with a view to curb losses," he said.
A junior engineer or deputy executive engineer would be given the charge of feeder manager. "This will not only ensure efficiency but also become a source of employment for engineers," Fadnavis said.
He said the government will also review the contracts awarded for development of infrastructure for power supply.

"There are a few projects in which tenders were invited and works were given to the contractors. But unfortunately works on some projects have not started. Therefore, we plan to revisit such projects and cancel the contracts if work has not started. We would re-invite tenders for the works and the contracts would be awarded on the basis of merit," he said.