Khattar for joint efforts towards development of energy sector in NE, ET EnergyWorld

Guwahati: Union Energy Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday emphasised on “collective efforts” for development of the power sector in the north-eastern region. “I chaired the all-important Energy Ministers’ Conference (North-East Region) in Guwahati today. During the session, he emphasised on collective efforts for a more promising and sustainable future and also development of the power sector in the north-eastern region,” Khattar wrote in a post on X. Later, talking to reporters, the minister said he had held two review meetings with the energy ministers and municipal ministers of the region.

“We reviewed all the projects of both ministries and discussed the challenges and requirements. We managed to get new information from the states,” he said.

Khattar said some projects have been granted extensions but all will be completed by March 2025.

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He also emphasised the potential of the north-eastern states to contribute to the country’s development, especially in sectors like energy and tourism.

Asked about the possibility of launching a metro in the region, he said it depends on the degree of urbanization as well as profitability.

Talking about the floods in Assam, Khattar said he has spoken to the Prime Minister and central government officials on the issue, which means a relief package may be announced soon.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in a post on X said, “Had an extremely fruitful discussion with Hon’ble Union Minister Shri @mlkhattar ji during his first visit to Assam after assuming office.”

He said the state has sought “assistance in rationalising gas prices to meet the increased power demand of Assam. The peak power demand of the state has already crossed 2,500 MW.”

“We shared plans to achieve saturation of the city’s drinking water resources, construction of Guwahati River Front and development of a new satellite township on G20 lines near Guwahati. We also explored the possibility of setting up a Centre of Excellence for Urban Planning in the state,” Sarma said.

In another post on portal X, the Chief Executive’s Office (CMO) said that Sarma also informed the state minister about the state’s initiatives aimed at reorganising the energy sector and municipal infrastructure.

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