[kasandrasikl]

State housing and urban development minister R.Vaithilingam has exuded confidence that Tamil Nadu will emerge as a power surplus state in another six months due to the measures being taken by chief minister J.Jayalalithaa.

Speaking at the valediction of electricity awareness week programme, organised by Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) here on Sunday, Mr Vaithilingam pointed out that Tamil Nadu was now getting only 5,500 MW power, against the required 11,500 MW. “It poses a great challenge in meeting the demand in spite of the concerted efforts taken by the state government and Tangedco to augment the installed capacity in the state,” he said.

As the generation of electricity through all possible ways, including nuclear, thermal, windmill and non-conventional energy sources did not help manage the demand, Ms.Jayalalithaa has announced ‘Vision 2023’, a far-sighted scheme, the minister said.

The chief minister has sanctioned `1,000 crore for establishing a thermal power plant at Udangudi
and has been taking all measures to renovate various power projects, Mr Vaithilingam said, and added that Tamil Nadu would emerge as a power surplus state in another six months due to such measures.

Pointing out that several consumers indulge in electricity theft unknowingly, like using it for purposes it was not intended for, he said, “As theft of electricity is a punishable offence, the public should be aware of the rules and take necessary steps to prevent and avoid electricity theft.”

He distributed prizes to winners of various competitions organised for school students in connection with the event. District revenue officer Suresh Kumar presided.

Tangedco Tiruchy region chief engineer Annadurai welcomed the gathering.

Chief engineer Thangaraj proposed the vote of thanks.

The electricity awareness week was observed to sensitise residents to the need for power conservation, electrical safety and prevention of power theft and misuse of energy.

Credit: Deccan Chronicle