24/7 power for industries soon?

The heavy rains that the State has been receiving in the last few days seem to have boosted the confidence of Energy Minister K S Eshwarappa; the Minister is now speaking of 24/7 power supply to industries, and places where power generating stations are located.

Speaking to reporters, Eshwarappa said that he will soon hold a meeting with the Industries Minister and representatives of industries, to work out a plan for provide round-the-clock power supply to industries in the State.

“Details like how to supply power and the tariff will be discussed during the meeting. We want to provide quality power. Representatives of industry bodies had, some time ago, told me that they do not mind paying more for quality power. We will work out details,” he added.

He also said that the Government’s plan to supply 24/7 power to districts where power is being generated, will be implemented soon.

Eshwarappa said the Government will not go in for load shedding if the State continues to receive good rain in the coming days. “The water level is increasing steadily following rain in the last few days. If rain continues, the need for load shedding will not arise,” he added.

Agriculture minister S A Ravindranath said sowing has gained momentum in many parts of the State, due to the heavy rains over the last few days. In the last week, 111 hoblis received normal rainfall, 102 hoblis received more than the normal amount of rain, and 49 hoblis received excess rainfall. Sowing is nearly 70 per cent - particularly in Dharwad, Belgaum, Haveri, Gadag and Shimoga districts.

Sowing operation had begun in 32 lakh hectares across the state against the target of 72 lakh hectares for kharif. The minister said that the State has enough stock of chemical fertilisers, except urea.