Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while leading an international conference on dam safety, said that Himachal is becoming an important hub for hydropower worldwide. The conference will continue until March 22.
He explained that the state's rivers are the main source of power generation. However, in the past, some power projects were given licenses without a fixed timeline, which usually lasts 35 to 40 years. As a result, the state suffered financial losses. Some projects still do not have a deadline for being handed over to the state government.
The government is fighting legal cases to take back these projects and is seeking legal advice. If necessary, the government will take over projects where the state's interests have been ignored.
Sukhu also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Himachal Pradesh's people for hydropower development. Many were displaced due to the construction of large dams like Bhakra and Pong and are still fighting for their rights. He assured them that the state government would take steps to address their concerns.
The Chief Minister criticised the fact that Himachal had to go to the Supreme Court to claim its rightful share of electricity. He noted that while water in reservoirs brings prosperity, sudden water releases during the rainy season can cause hardships for people living downstream.
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He stressed the importance of dam security and disaster preparedness, especially since Himachal experienced severe natural disasters in 2023. With cloudburst incidents rising, he instructed dam authorities to alert residents in advance before releasing excess water.
Sukhu also emphasised the need for high-quality dam construction and regular maintenance to ensure safety. He pointed out that climate change and other factors pose new risks to dams in the Himalayan region. A multi-dimensional approach is needed to tackle these challenges.
The government has implemented the Dam Safety Act, which ensures proper monitoring, inspection, and maintenance of dams. A Dam Safety Committee has been set up to oversee these activities.
The event was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Education Minister Rohit Thakur, Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, HP Power Regulatory Commission Chairman D.K. Sharma, and other senior officials.
Also Read: Former HP Minister Kewal Singh Pathania passes away at 88
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