Manohar Lal reviews Power and Urban Development Sector of Lakshadweep
The Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, conducted a comprehensive review of the power sector in the Union Territory (UT) of Lakshadweep. The meeting took place in Kavaratti and aimed to address various issues affecting the power supply and generation in the region. Shri Praful Patel, the Honorable Administrator of Lakshadweep, was present, along with senior officials from the UT administration, the Government of India, and the Power Finance Corporation (PFC). This gathering marked a significant step toward improving the power infrastructure and services in Lakshadweep.
Current Power Generation Status
During the meeting, participants discussed the current state of power generation in Lakshadweep. The focus was on understanding the sources of electricity generation and the performance of the electricity department. The discussions highlighted several critical issues, including the demand and supply of power in the islands. The performance of the flagship scheme, PM Surya Ghar Yojana, was also evaluated, along with challenges related to power distribution.
The meeting addressed the status of ongoing projects, such as the Ground Mounted Solar project and the proposed floating solar power plant. These initiatives are crucial for enhancing renewable energy generation in the region. The emphasis on solar energy aligns with the government’s broader goals of promoting sustainable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The officials recognized the need for a strategic approach to improve power generation and distribution, ensuring that the residents of Lakshadweep have access to reliable electricity.
Infrastructure Development and Modernization
The Administrator of Lakshadweep expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for his visit and the opportunity to discuss pressing power sector issues. He highlighted the necessity of interconnecting the islands through a submarine cable project. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of power supply across the islands, addressing the challenges posed by their geographical isolation.
Additionally, the Administrator requested support for modernizing the transmission and distribution systems in Lakshadweep under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). This modernization is vital for improving the efficiency and reliability of power supply in the region. The officials acknowledged that these projects are essential for the overall development of the power sector in Lakshadweep, and they committed to making every effort to implement them effectively.
Emphasis on Renewable Energy Sources
In his address, Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal emphasized the importance of reducing electricity generation costs over time. He stressed the need to decrease dependence on diesel-based power generation. Instead, he advocated for increasing the share of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, complemented by battery energy storage systems. This approach aims to create a stable and sustainable energy grid for the islands.
The Minister also encouraged exploring alternative energy generation methods. He highlighted the potential for electric vehicles (EVs) and proposed the establishment of solar-based EV charging stations. This initiative could significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner transportation options in Lakshadweep. Furthermore, he suggested piloting similar projects for boats currently powered by diesel, showcasing a commitment to innovative solutions for energy challenges in the region.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
The Union Minister’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to supporting the sustainable development of Lakshadweep. He advised the UT administration to focus on greening specific islands, such as Agatti-Bangaram, Minicoy, and Kadmat. The Ministry pledged to provide necessary support for these initiatives, which aim to enhance the ecological balance and promote environmental sustainability.
Shri Manohar Lal assured the continued cooperation of the Government of India in the overall development of Lakshadweep. He expressed hope for the well-being of the island’s residents and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to improve the power sector. The discussions held during this meeting are expected to pave the way for significant advancements in Lakshadweep’s energy landscape, ultimately benefiting its inhabitants.
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