Finally, there is a ray of hope for the people of energy-starved region of Palamau, Garhwa and latehar. Energy Minister Rajendra Singh expressed his Government's resolve to provide uninterrupted power to the three districts from October onwards.
The Minister communicated his Government’s plan while addressing members of the Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FJCCI) at its 49th Annual General Meeting held on Saturday.Singh said, “I am visiting latehar from September 29 to September 30. latehar will be linked to the Hatia grid ensuring 20 hours of uninterrupted power supply. Notably, Palamau and Garhwa will be linked to the Hatia grid by October 29.
"Palamu and Garhwa will be linked to the Hatia grid and will try to ensure 22 hours electricity supply to both places," added Singh. Incidentally, in July 2013, the Minister had promised energy to the three districts in three months' time. The Energy Minister has approved a post of General Manager (GM) for Giridih area. "The decision has been taken to ensure that businesses in Giridih and Madhuban, a sacred place for Jains, get uninterrupted power supply," maintained Singh.
Interestingly, Singh also promised beginning of operations in Sikni colliery and assured businessmen at the AGM supply of coal to medium & small businesses at a cheaper rate. "Since I'm the second man in the Cabinet (CM being the first) I will look into the matter. Soon we will obtain clearances for starting production," Singh said. Chief Minister Hemant Soren is currently holding the charge of Mines.
Singh, who is having an additional charge of Finance lent his ear to the members of the FJCCI and promised to address their grievances and resolving all disputes between Government and the Chamber amicably. He assured that support to the Chamber on a host of issues and playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between CM and the Chamber. "I will hold a meeting of the department and will invite you people (FJCCI members) to discuss all outstanding issues," said Singh.