Harish Rao seeks withdrawal of GO 17 on Rythu Discom, written assurance on free farm power

BRSLP deputy leader T. Harish Rao demanded the withdrawal of GO 17 setting up the Rythu Discom, alleging that it creates uncertainty over free power supply to farmers. He sought a written assurance on uninterrupted 24-hour free electricity and questioned the new utility's financial viability, staffing, power allocation and operational preparedness.

Hyderabad: Accusing the Congress government of creating uncertainty over the continuation of free power supply to the agriculture sector, BRSLP deputy leader T Harish Rao demanded immediate withdrawal of GO 17 establishing the Rythu Discom (power distribution company).

He sought a written assurance that 24-hour free electricity would continue without cuts, besides full disclosure of the proposed utility’s financial liabilities, staffing, operational arrangements and benefits to farmers.

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In a statement, Harish Rao condemned the government for proceeding despite objections from the BRS, other political parties, employee unions, power sector experts, social activists and farmers. He questioned how the new utility would improve power quality or supply when farmers were already facing burnt transformers, low voltage and drying crops.

According to the GO, around 30,62,853 connections, including 30,60,861 agricultural connections, 512 lift irrigation schemes, Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) and Mission Bhagiratha, would be transferred to the new Discom. Harish Rao questioned how such a vast network could be managed by just 2,000 employees.

The BRSLP deputy leader also raised concerns over power availability. As per the GO, the new utility would receive 25 per cent of thermal power allocation, 58 per cent of solar power and the entire hydel allocation. Solar generation is available only during daylight, while the 2,325 MW hydel allocation is technically available for only three to four months a year. He questioned how farmers could receive uninterrupted power under this arrangement.

He asked why 6,15,651 agricultural transformers and 2.51 lakh circuit kilometres of low-tension agricultural lines were being transferred without clarity on adequate maintenance staff and accountability for disruptions.

Harish Rao also questioned the allocation of heavy loans and arrears to the new utility, warning that financial losses could eventually be used to impose restrictions on farmers. He sought details of its additional administrative costs, the transfer of assets, liabilities and employees, and safeguards against any future curbs on agricultural power.

“The government must answer these questions and address farmers’ objections before proceeding,” he said, demanding that the GO be withdrawn immediately if the government could not provide satisfactory assurances.