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Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday expressed his displeasure to Satluj Jalvidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) chairman over a delay in the implementation of various projects.
In his meeting with SJVNL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Nand Lal Sharma, Sukhu raised concerns over the public sector undertaking’s (PSU’s) commencement of construction work on the 210 mw Luhri (Phase-1), 66 mw Dhaula Sidh, and 382 mw Sunni dam projects without signing an implementation agreement with the state government. Despite repeated requests, SJVNL has shown lack of proactive measures, prompting the state government to issue a notice to the company.
Sukhu also emphasised on the need for higher royalty rates for the state in SJVNL’s hydropower projects. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the current provision, which stipulates royalty rates of 12 per cent for the initial 12 years, 18 per cent for the subsequent 18 years, and 30 per cent for the final 10 years. He argued that a royalty rate of 30 per cent should be applicable to projects that have covered the construction cost and reached completion. Furthermore, he proposed that after 40 years of operation, the projects should be transferred to the state government.
Highlighting the priceless value of the state’s river waters, the chief minister pointed out that these resources have been exploited by hydroelectric projects, yet the people of the state have not reaped the desired benefits. The issue of water cess was also discussed in detail during the meeting, with Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sunder Singh Thakur present.
The dissatisfaction expressed by the chief minister reflects the ongoing disagreements between SJVNL and the state government regarding the implementation and royalty aspects of the hydel projects. These discussions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future course of action and determining the outcomes of the dialogue between SJVNL and the state government.
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