MP set to add 2,000 mw power by '07

Targets addition of another 8,000 mw in next four years

The state is all set to add 2,000 megawatt (mw) of power by 2007 and has plans to add another 8,000 mw in the next four years.

Indrasagar and Omkareshwar power projects have already been commissioned with capacities of 1,000 mw and 400 mw respectively, while two other projects "� Maheshwar and Baansagar "� that will collectively generate around 900 mw are expected to be commissioned by June next year.

"Primarily, generation will be coal-based. Of 2,000 mw, 900 mw will be hydel and the rest 1,100 mw will be thermal. The reliability factor in case of thermal plant is 80 per cent, and in case of hydel it is 40 per cent.

We are using our hydel plants only during peak hours," said O P Rawat, principal secretary, ministry of commerce and industries, Madhya Pradesh.

"At present, the state requires 5,900 mw of power but is getting only 4,600 mw "� a shortage of 1,300 mw," he said. Government sources said Reliance was also planning to set up a power plant in the state.

Chief Minister Babulal Gaur said, at an investors' meet in Mumbai today, "Madhya Pradesh has massive opportunities for industrial development. Industrialists should come and take a look at the state."

He also said the state would soon have four-five mini hydel projects on Narmada river. "An investment of Rs 250 crore has been made for hydro turbine imported from Germany," Gaur said.

Currently, Madhya Pradesh offers industries power at Rs 4 a unit, domestic consumers at Rs 3.20 a unit and agriculturists at Rs 1.20 a unit.

Ruling out further rate cuts for industrial consumers, a state government official said, "The rates for the industry are already subsidised and further cuts may not be feasible." He added that rates in neighbouring states like Gujarat and Maharashtra were much higher.