News
CM Sukhu Chairs Review Meeting of Energy Department, Focuses on Strengthening HPSEBL
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasizes recruitment and operational efficiency to ensure uninterrupted power supply in Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla, April 8:
In a significant review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the state government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the functioning of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL). The CM outlined strategic steps to improve the efficiency of the Energy Department and ensure high-quality, uninterrupted power services for the people of Himachal Pradesh.
Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted that the recruitment of field staff in large numbers will play a crucial role in strengthening HPSEBL’s operations, focusing on the improvement of service delivery at the grassroots level. He praised the dedicated efforts of the Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited (HPPTCL), whose employees have been instrumental in maintaining a steady power supply throughout the state.
The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of officers working on deputation in various energy-related departments. He directed that all officers currently on deputation in the Energy Directorate, HPPCL, and Power Corporation be given the option of permanent placement in their respective positions by April 30. Once these adjustments are made, vacant positions will be filled on a priority basis to ensure the optimal functioning of HPSEBL.
In a major development, Sukhu announced the early inauguration of the much-awaited 100 MW Uhal Phase-3 Hydroelectric Project. The project, which commenced in 2003, faced delays due to an unfortunate penstock burst in 2020. However, the present government stepped in, restarted the project, and provided a financial assistance of Rs 185 crore. The project has already generated 2.97 crore units of electricity, and once fully operational, it is expected to generate about 392 million units annually, contributing approximately Rs 200 crore in revenue to the state.
The meeting was attended by Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Energy Director Rakesh Kumar Prajapati, HPSEBL Managing Director Sandeep Kumar, and other senior officials. The ongoing initiatives and reforms aim to reinforce the state’s energy sector, ensuring long-term sustainability and service excellence for the residents of Himachal Pradesh.
