3,000 linemen to be recruited by April-end

Energy Minister K.G. George plans to recruit 3,000 linemen to enhance power sector workforce and ensure reliable electricity supply.

In a move aimed at strengthening the workforce in the power sector and ensuring more reliable electricity supply network across the State, it has been proposed to recruit 3,000 linemen by April-end, Energy Minister K.G. George has said.

Chairing a review meeting in Haveri on Monday, Mr. George said that the services of linemen are critical in ensuring the requisite power supply and that is why the recruitment process will be expedited and completed by the end of April.

The Minister said that barring one month, the State had adequate power supply throughout last year. Considering the fact that there will be an additional demand for power this year, the department is ready to purchase additional power based on the need during summer, he said, clarifying that there is no shortage of power.

The Minister said that the government is encouraging HESCOM officials to initiate steps for more active participation of the public in order to seek suggestions on resolving issues. It is also prioritising Kusum-B scheme under which solar pumpsets are provided to address power issues pertaining to irrigation pumpsets.

Mr. George said that under the scheme, the State has increased subsidy share to 50%, while the Central government offers a 30% subsidy. “Farmers only need to pay 20% of the cost to receive a solar pumpset,” he said.

He said that after the Congress came to power in the State, 2.5 lakh illegal agricultural pumpsets have been regularised and provided with solar power. The process is still under way. Soon a decision on fresh applications pertaining to regularisation will be taken, he said.

Responding to a plea from MLA and Deputy Speaker Rudrappa Lamani on setting up a 110 kV capacity station in Negalur, the Minister directed the officials to submit a proposal within two days.