70% drop in rainfall this year leaves MSMEs powerless in Karnataka

New Delhi, July 19 (KNN) With the third year of poor rainfall in the state, the power generation in Karnataka is severely affected leading to a power crisis for the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region.

Talking to KNN, Shivashankar, Secretary of Vasanthanarsapura Industries Association explained the situation.

He informed that there haven’t been favourable rains in the last few years, because of which there is a problem in generating electricity for the industries in the region. At present the industry is totally dependent on the power that is being purchased from other states, which is fine for now, but isn’t a sustainable model.

He said the present resources in the state generate only 25 per cent of the total requirement, which is causing an alarming state for the industry operating in different zones of Karnataka.

Shivashankar said that over the years, the industry is figuring out alternative ways to generate power. Solar power is an important resource that the state needs to focus on.

He also informed that different industry associations have approached the government following which the energy minister have assured for immediate arrangements for the units.

Shivashankar emphasized that over a period of two years from now, the industry and the government will have to move away from conventional sources of energy and adapt alternative techniques to ensure uninterrupted operations in the region. (KNN/ DA)