Mizoram is all set to electrify all villages and provide electricity to all households by the end of this year under Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana – ‘Saubhagya’ scheme, officials said.
As per the survey conducted last year, about 13,854 families in rural areas have no access to electricity, according to officials of the State Power and Electricity department.
Power and electricity secretary, H Lalengmawia said all households would be provided with electricity under Saubhagya scheme within this year. Saubhagya was launched in the State on January 17 this year.
Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, who launched the scheme in Aizawl, said the State government would fully implement the scheme all over the State by December 31, two years ahead of the Centre’s schedule.
Of the 13,854 families which have no access to power, 4000 have been already given electricity, according to Lalengmawia.
He added that the government is determined to achieve its target of providing electricity to every household by the end of this year.
Lalengmawia further said free connection will be given to families under Saubhagya scheme.
Electrification of villages and families will be undertaken in full swing once this monsoon season gets over, he assured.
Mizoram is taking massive efforts to become self sufficient in power.
Two power projects, one each on Tlawva River near Khawbung village and on Kawlbem River near Kawlbem village are now under construction.
The State government is also taking efforts to construct hydel project on river Tuirini near Saitual town.
Mizoram has currently local power generation of 29.5 MW from eight power units and spends Rs 25 to Rs 28 crore for purchase of power from outside the State every month.