Funds are still being paid for hydroelectric projects that are operational and under construction in the state. Most of the small projects are causing loss despite spending Rs 50 lakh to Rs 70 crore. There are 120 projects remaining in the state. The unofficial estimate is that at least more than Rs 1000 crore have been spent for this. The KSEB does not have the exact figure regarding this.
Negligence of contractors are behind the loss figures of these projects. Despite Electricity Minister K Krishankutty’s direct intervention, the officials who should take the initiative to speed up the construction are not doing so. They generally point to land acquisition issues, opposition from the forest and environment departments, and technical problems as obstacles to hydropower projects. The board assesses that lack of coordination among officials is the real issue.
It includes projects ranging from five years to 25 years for construction. 40 MW Pambar project and the 30 MW Achankovilar project have been hampered by environmental issues. The Thottiyar project, which was supposed to be completed in 2012, is about 40 per cent complete. Mankulam hydro electric project has not been completed despite spending Rs 70 crore to acquire land.
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