Leimakhong power plant all ready but sitting idle

Imphal, April 16: All dressed up and nowhere to go. This is the situation of the prestigious Leimakhong power plant, which seems to be as far away from commissioning as ever despite its completion months back. According to reliable sources, the single main hurdle in the way of getting the 100% Centrally sponsored power station on line is the failure of the state power department to install the 3 KV high tension line from Leimakhong to Iroishemba that would connect the power station to the state electricity network. The sources said the six engines at the Leimakhong power station have been tested individually, but a full test of the power station cannot be done as yet due to the non-installation of the power line. The delay in installation of the power line is said to be due to a dispute among the contractors, and the failure of the state electricity department to take up necessary action in time. Though the tender process is said to be complete, the installation has not yet been awarded to any contractor. It is also learnt that an amount of Rs 1 crore had been sanctioned by the Centre for the installation of the power line. There is now fear that the unutilized amount may lapse and have to be returned. In the meantime, there is reportedly a proposal for borrowing the existing Leimakhong to Iroishemba power line which forms part of the state electricity grid. The line is however said to be old and in poor condition, and cannot bear the full load. Sources in the state electricity department in the meantime indicate that work in the department has suffered due to the struggle for the post of chief engineer between the two senior-most officers of the department. The chief engineer-in-charge, Tiken, and additional chief engineer, are said to be too busy lobbying with the power minister for the top post, to look after the work of the department.