Energy Minister says power inevitable for country’s economic prosperity

Rautahat / Jan 7: Energy Minister Janardan Sharma has said energy is imperative for the economic prosperity of the country.

Laying the foundation stone for the construction of a sub-station of Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) at Pataura, Maulapur-3 of Rautahat district on Saturday, he said there is no alternative to the development of hydroelectricity for economic development.

The Minister also warned of stern action against anyone found involved in power theft, referring to the high incidence of power leakage and theft in various districts of the Tarai.

In a different context, he stressed on holding the local bodies’ election and forwarding the constitution amendment process at the earliest for broader acceptability of the constitution.

Minister of State for Energy Satya Narayan Bhagat expressed the determination that Rautahat district would be made a ‘hooking-free’ district, meaning the district would be ridden of electricity theft that is taking place through hooking.

Energy Ministry Secretary Anup Kumar Upadhyaya sought the cooperation from all sides for the development of the energy sector as it was the only alternative to propel the country’s economic development ahead.

NEA Executive Director Kulman Ghising said the sub-station construction project has been undertaken for the electrification of Rautahat district. He also directed the NEA employees to work round the clock for curbing electricity leakage.

The sub-station is to be constructed at a cost of Rs 110 million within one and half years, according to NEA. RSS