New Delhi,June 21,(ANI): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today unveiled a 1,200 km power transmission project from neighboring Bhutan to eastern region of the country. This is the first power transmission project developed in public-private partnership that will benefit West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Sikkim. The project is a 49:51 ratio joint venture between Tata Power and Power Grid Corporation Limited.
“The projects are of immense national significance. Not just because they signify the availability of additional electric power but more so because they are important symbols of regional economic cooperation in South Asia. I hope that we can replicate our highly successful, win-win model of bilateral cooperation with Bhutan in the power sector with Nepal too,” Dr. Singh said.
“I am aware that there are concerns pertaining to ecology, rehabilitation and resettlement in the case of large hydroelectric projects. I am fully cognisant of such concerns and they must be addressed. I do sincerely believe that it is possible for us to take care of our people and our environment while undertaking hydro-power projects. It is precisely to address such concerns that the Ministry of Power is setting up a task force on hydro-power.”
“I am aware that there are concerns pertaining to ecology, rehabilitation and resettlement in the case of large hydroelectric projects. I am fully cognisant of such concerns and they must be addressed. I do sincerely believe that it is possible for us to take care of our people and our environment while undertaking hydro-power projects. It is precisely to address such concerns that the Ministry of Power is setting up a task force on hydro-power.”
