Question : PROGRESS OF ALMATTI POWER PROJECT

(a) whether the work on the 290 MW Almatti hydel power project is going smoothly with the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited is poised to commission Unit I two months ahead of schedule;

(b) if so, whether another five units under this Rs.678.38 crore Almatti dam power house projects have to be ready by July 2005 with an installed capacity of 290 MW;

(c) if so, the progress made so far;

(d) whether the target fixed for July 2005 are likely to be achieved; and

(e) if so, the extent to which it is likely to reduce the power shortage in the State?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER ( SHRIMATI JAYAWANTI MEHTA )

(a) & (b) : As per information supplied by Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd. who are implementing the project, the works of Almatti Hydel Project (1x15 MW + 5x55 MW = 290 MW) taken up at an estimated cost of Rs.674.38 crore are progressing as per schedule. Commercial operation of first unit of 15 MW is scheduled in April, 2004 and of last unit of 55 MW in July, 2005.

(c) : The status of works is as under :

- Excavation in the Power House and appurtenant areas completed.

- Order for the supply and erection of Electro Mechanical equipment has been placed with BHEL and generating units are under various stages of erection. Power House concreting is in progress.

- Fabrication and Erection of five Penstocks completed and erection of sixth Penstock is in progress.

- Order for control and relay panels, switchyard equipments and auxiliary system has been placed.


(d) : Yes, Sir.

(e) : With the commissioning of this project, the peak shortage in the State of Karnataka will reduce by 250 MW and energy shortage by about 483 MU.