Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar made an announcement in Belgaum that the Karnataka government is actively devising an action plan to augment the state’s power production capacity, a facet that had not seen much progress during the prior government’s tenure.
Highlighting a significant issue, it was observed that there are pending electricity bills amounting to Rs 1,200 crore in the Belagavi district. This concern may further escalate once water is released into the canals.
Addressing reporters in his statement on Thursday, he emphasized a forward-looking approach, saying, “I won’t dwell on the failures of the BJP. We managed to boost power production between 2013 and 2018 during our term. The current predicament stems from the lack of power production enhancement during the BJP’s leadership.
Immediately upon assuming office, I engaged with Energy Minister KJ George to discuss bolstering power generation. We even made a visit to the Pavagada Solar Park. Presently, I’m in the process of formulating an action plan for establishing a new solar park.”
DK Shivakumar also pointed out the challenge posed by reduced rainfall in the state this year, underlining that the government incurs a daily loss of Rs 1,000 crore in the event of a single rainless day. He elucidated, “We are procuring power at a rate ranging from Rs 6 to Rs 7 per unit and subsidizing it for farmers.”
Taking measures to address the situation, he mentioned, “I have directed officials to examine the water management model in Maharashtra, which involves levying fees on water consumers for crop irrigation. Furthermore, we have initiated the process of inviting tenders for fish farming in lakes replenished by pump sets. The expenses incurred for electricity consumed by pump sets to refill the lakes will be offset by revenues generated through these fish farming tenders.”
Regarding the mounting electricity bills, especially in Belagavi district, he expressed concerns that this figure may swell as water is channeled into the canals.
Additionally, he shared insights into future projects planned for North Karnataka, highlighting that nearly all lakes and reservoirs in the region are brimming, except for the Malaprabha reservoir. In contrast, the Old Mysuru Region is grappling with low water storage, a critical situation.
Addressing questions about differences of opinion with Minister Satish Jarkiholi, Shivakumar asserted, “There are no conflicting viewpoints between us.”
