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Planned power shut down to save energy

The state government will start a campaign in this connection so as to generate awareness on power conservation.

Planned power shut down to save energy

(Representational Image: iStock)

State power minister Shobhandeb Chattopadhyay today accused the Centre of delaying environmental and forest clearances in order to commence coal mining activities in allotted mines along with appealing citizens to accept the decision to shut down power for 30 minutes in residences and one hour in government offices in a week.

The decision to ‘conserve energy and prevent power wastage’ was taken at a meeting held by chief minister Mamata Banerjee with three departments namely power, panchayat and water resources and investigation in Nabanna to ensure uninterrupted power generation, distribution and transmission in the ongoing summer season.

“We are not able to commence operations in some allotted coal mines because the Centre is delaying in giving forest and environmental clearances,” said Mr Chattopadhyay at a press conference in Nabanna. Coal cess has been increased exponentially and freight cost was rising, he said, adding that cost of power generation is also soaring, which affects industries as well as households.

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Mr Chattopadhyay said that Barjora North coal block has started operation and Panchwara North block would start work very soon.

“Speedy clearance from Central government would give us benefits in producing more coal for captive purposes and reduce the cost of power generation. Miss Banerjee has directed to take steps so as to conserve energy and thereby save enviroment,” he said.

The state government will start a campaign in this connection so as to generate awareness on power conservation.

“We don’t want to enforce the decision of shutting down power. Instead, we want people to realise the need for stopping power wastage along with conserving energy,” he said adding that the districtwise plan for power shut down will be decided soon.

Miss Banerjee also formed a committee headed by chief secretary Moloy De with officials of panchayat, water resouce investigation and fisheries departments to take steps in connection to a survey stating that water level in 31 places might get depleted, said Mr Adhikari.

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