Gurpreet Singh :- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, along with Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora, on Monday addressed a press conference detailing the achievements and promises fulfilled by the state government over the past four years. The briefing, held at the Chief Minister’s residence, focused on key initiatives including free electricity, employment generation and power sector reforms.
Addressing the media, Mann reiterated that the government had announced free electricity for consumers in 2022, with households beginning to receive zero bills from June that year. He added that, unlike previous administrations where power tariffs saw regular hikes, his government has ensured a reduction in electricity rates, providing substantial relief to the public.
According to the Chief Minister, nearly 90 per cent of consumers are now receiving zero electricity bills, significantly easing financial pressure on households. He further stated that 8,014 individuals have been directly employed in the power sector, strengthening the workforce and improving service delivery.
Highlighting a major development in the energy sector, Mann said the government acquired the GVK thermal power plant at Goindwal Sahib for ₹1,080 crore, calling it one of the most cost-effective deals. He claimed that the purchase resulted in savings of around ₹1,462 crore for the state, contributing to financial efficiency and stability in power supply.
Mann also pointed out the improvement in coal reserves at thermal plants, noting that where earlier there were concerns about coal stocks lasting only a few days, the situation has now stabilised with reserves lasting several weeks. This, he said, has effectively eliminated fears of power shortages during peak seasons.
The Chief Minister emphasised that uninterrupted 24-hour power supply has significantly benefited farmers, particularly during the paddy cultivation season, as they now have adequate electricity for irrigation. He added that the government is working on further strengthening the power infrastructure to ensure even better supply in the future.
