Haryana's power policy applauded nationwide, line loss reduced from 34% to 10%, says Khattar

Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar said Haryana’s power policy was being appreciated nationwide.

"Dedicated efforts by the state government to reduce line losses have yielded positive results, with line losses in Haryana dropping from 34 per cent in 2014 to 10 per cent today. Haryana’s Power Discoms are now ranking A+," he said.

Khattar shared this while interacting with mediapersons after chairing a key meeting with the officers of the Power and Urban Local Bodies Departments at Haryana Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh. Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister Vipul Goel also remained present on this occasion.

Proposals for Metro in Ambala, Yamunanagar

Union Minister for Power, Housing, and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday said in cities where Metro services were already operational, expanding the metro network was a priority

"Proposals have been received for Metro systems in cities like Ambala, Ambala Cantonment, Yamunanagar, and Jagadhri, which will be considered," he said

The Union Minister said meetings were being held with all states regarding the schemes of both the departments and in this series today two meetings had been held with Haryana as well. Discussions were held regarding the ongoing projects and new schemes of both the departments, he said.

Khattar said in the meeting detailed discussions were held to address present and future power requirements and strengthening transmission lines. During the meeting, there was also a suggestion to consider public listing for Haryana Power Discoms, which could serve as a model for other states.

He said the Central Government granted funds for the prepaid meter scheme, which will initially be implemented in government offices and then gradually expanded based on its success. Discussions on solar energy were been held during these meetings. "The availability of land in Haryana remains an issue for the execution of solar projects, the state will look to advance rooftop solar policies. Each state has unique circumstances — hydropower projects are suitable for Himachal Pradesh, while Haryana and Punjab are more reliant on thermal power plants," said Khattar.

The Union Minister also discussed urban development plans during the meeting. He said under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), an initial goal of Rs 1 crore homes had been achieved, with another 1 crore planned. According to Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC) data, eligible beneficiaries will receive benefits, and new surveys will be conducted to ensure that all eligible individuals can access these welfare schemes.

He said in cities where metro services were already operational, expanding the Metro network was a priority. Proposals had been received for metro systems in cities like Ambala, Ambala Cantonment, Yamunanagar, and Jagadhri, which would be considered. Additionally, 450 new buses would be added under the PM e-Bus Service to strengthen urban transport.