Kiran promises relief to power-starved industry in AP

A delegation of Confederation of Indian Industries led by state unit president Suchitra Ella met the Chief Minister here today and expressed serious concern over the power crisis, which had forced the factories to shut down for three days a week.

The Chief Minister told the delegation that the state government would "try its best", and pool power from "all possible sources".

Kiran said the AP Power Transmission Corporation was purchasing 900 MW power from outside. "We are also encouraging generation of solar and wind power in a major way. You too consult other industrial associations and come out with concrete proposals to overcome the situation and also see how much energy can be produced from captive power plants," the Chief Minister said.

AP Transco chairman and managing director Hiralal Samariya said industries were being allowed to purchase power under open access system. He also offered to ensure 60 per cent electricity supply on a daily basis to industries if they installed controlled meters.

Chief Secretary Minnie Mathew and other senior officials were present during the meeting.