Power crisis would be overcome soon in AP, assures CM

Noting that there is a 20 per cent shortage of power at present in Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy today expressed confidence that the ongoing power crisis would be overcome soon.

Power production has come down by 50 million units due to insufficient rainfall and unavailability of gas, Kiran Kumar Reddy said, speaking at a function organised in connection with the 'Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas' (Renewable Energy Day). "The government is addressing the issue and giving power subsidy to the tune of Rs 5,000 crore," he said. Observing that coal and other natural resources are depleting fast, he highlighted the need to save energy and to promote renewable energy sources. While power production decreased, consumption rose substantially, he said.

The Chief Minister also administered a pledge to a large number of school children, who were present on the occasion, that they will promote renewable energy. State ministers J Geeta Reddy, B Saraiah, G Prasad Kumar, Mukesh Goud and several other officials also participated in the programme. Though the Renewable Energy Day is observed on the birth anniversary of late Rajiv Gandhi, the function was organised today as this year Eid was celebrated on the day on August 20.

-Siva@sakshipost