Assam’s Chief Minister Engages with Union Minister to Boost Power and Urban Infrastructure

Guwahati, July 09, 2024: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with the Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Manohar Lal, today in Guwahati to discuss various state issues and initiatives. The Chief Minister apprised the Union Minister of Assam’s ongoing efforts to revamp the power sector and urban infrastructure.

In their meeting, Chief Minister Sarma conveyed that, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the state is intensifying its efforts to ensure the provision of affordable green energy through enabling policy support. This marks Union Minister Manohar Lal’s first visit to Assam after assuming charge.

One of the primary concerns highlighted by the Chief Minister was the need for assistance to help rationalize gas prices to meet Assam’s increased demand for power. The state’s peak power demand has already surpassed 2500 MW. Additionally, Sarma informed the Union Minister about the rising demand for homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), stating that over 60% of the sanctioned 1.7 lakh homes have already been delivered.

The discussion also covered the state’s plans to achieve saturation in urban drinking water supply, the development of the Guwahati Riverfront, and the construction of a new satellite township near Guwahati based on G20 principles. Furthermore, the two leaders deliberated on the possibility of establishing a Centre of Excellence for Urban Planning in Assam.

This meeting underscores the state’s commitment to advancing its urban infrastructure and power sector in alignment with national goals and sustainable development principles.

Also read: Assam Government Announces Major Recruitment Drive to Fill 35,000 Vacancies by April 2025