Lack of proper planning causing power crisis in state: BRS leader

Bhupalapally: The power crisis in the state is the result of decisions made without foresight and a lack of proper planning by the Congress government, criticised BRS leader Gandra Venkata Ramanareddy while addressing a press conference here on Friday.

He said power cuts are causing severe hardships to farmers, with motors failing and crops drying up. He alleged that the present situation is due to the government not paying about Rs60,000 crore in dues to power sector companies, including Singareni, and demanded clarity from the government on this issue.

He called for a comprehensive inquiry into the decline in Singareni’s coal production, political interference in overburden tenders, and allegations of corruption. He noted that the Chelpur GenCo plant has a capacity of 1,100 MW but is currently producing only 400–600 MW. He urged the government to address the coal shortage, ensure Singareni clears its dues, and guarantee uninterrupted coal supply to power plants.

Recalling that the previous BRS government provided 24 hour power to farmers, he suggested the current government should asses the electricity demand and procure the required power in advance. He demanded continuous power supply for the Devadula lift irrigation project.

He warned that the next 15 days to one month are critical for paddy crops, and if power interruptions continue during this period farmers will suffer heavy losses. He urged the government to take immediate action to protect farmers from drought like conditions and warned that if problems are not resolved, he will launch a protest in support of farmers.

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The Hans India