Aizwal: Mizoram's power department is likely to be turned into a corporate entity to enhance operational efficiency, the Assembly was informed on March 7.

Responding to a query from H Ginzalala, a member of the ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), Power Minister F Rodingliana outlined plans to restructure the department into three distinct functional segments—transmission, generation, and distribution strategic business units (SBUs) - as part of the corporatization process.

In addition to the organizational changes, the minister disclosed the government's intentions to undertake the construction of three dams to bolster electricity generation. Among these projects are a 150-MW hydroelectric facility in the Tuivai River in Saitual district near the Manipur border, a 120-MW unit in the Tlawng River, and a 24-MW project in the Tuirini River near Sesawng village in Aizawl district.

Rodingliana previously mentioned that the state government intended to build an additional four solar power plants, collectively capable of producing 45 MW of electricity.

He mentioned that, Mizoram allocates a monthly expenditure ranging from Rs 33-37 crore for procuring power externally. Additionally, the state requires 156 MW of electricity during peak hours, as stated by the minister. The minister reported the existence of 15 small hydroelectric projects in the state, generating a combined power output of 38.55 MW. He further highlighted the variability in power generation, noting that it frequently fluctuates based on prevailing weather conditions.

Presenting the latest budget, the Mizoram government said it will not hike the power bills during its tenure as it “affects the utility bills of every household directly” leading to financial misery for lower-income households.

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