Power lines shut down to avoid accidents in flood-hit areas: Electricity advisor

Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, Advisor to the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, said that power lines have been shut down to avoid accidents in flood-affected areas in the northeastern part of the country. A list of damages has already been prepared. As soon as the water recedes, the power lines will be switched on.

He said these things to the journalists while visiting the 35 megawatt solar power plant of a private company established near Paturia ghat of Shivaloy upazila of Manikganj on Saturday (August 24) afternoon.

At this time, the senior secretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Energy and Mineral Resources. Habibur Rahman, Deputy Commissioner Rehena Akhtar, Additional Superintendent of Police (Finance and Administration) Sujan Mahmud, Upazila Executive Officer Md. Belal Hossain, Specta Group Chairman Khan Mohammad Aftab Uddin were present.

Fawzul Kabir Khan said that there have been many irregularities in the power and energy sector in the past. In 2010, the project was awarded without competition under the Fast Energy Procurement Act. Its term is extended till 2026. As a result, projects have been given to people for the sake of the government. There has been corruption from both sides. Making electricity projects at higher prices and increasing the prices as per the government's wishes.

The electricity and energy advisor said, to determine the price of electricity or energy, the Energy Regulatory Commission had to go first. This is third party work. They will listen to all sides and decide. But last year a clause was added in the commission, that is the government can increase the price of fuel if it wants.

He also said that electricity and fuel prices will not be increased unnecessarily like before. I suspended the future application of the 2010 Act on the first day I took office. At the same time, the power of the government to raise prices has also been cancelled. From now on, there is no opportunity to give projects to people who know each other and for the sake of it. You have to get the job by participating in the competition.

Bangladesh /KH