Load shedding schedule to be announced on Nov 3

“A meeting of officials of Department of Energy will be held, on Monday, in which the State’s power situation will be reviewed. Sector-wise allocation of the available power and schedule of load shedding will be worked out in the meeting,” he informed the mediapersons here on Sunday.

Energy Minister informed that 105 million unit power is generated in the State at present, much less than the actual demand. The general impression is that there will be no power crisis in the State this year, as there is sufficient water storage in major reservoirs of the State, where hydel energy is generated. In reality, contribution from hydel power units is just 40 million units. Available water should be subjected to judicious utilisation. He said that no decision has been taken over procuring power from outside sources in order to meet the demand.

Eshwarappa said that technical snag in Raichur thermal power station has resulted in power crisis. The power station has lived its period, as it was commissioned 24 years ago with the life span of 23 years. He further said that there are no plans to modernise RTPS. The eighth unit of RTPS with the capacity to generate 250 mw power will become functional by 2010.

A notification to appoint 3,110 line men will be issued shortly. Department of Finance  has approved the proposal to fill vacant posts. During the recruitment drive priority will be accorded to persons serving on a daily wage and contract basis.