Opposition Flags Concerns as Mizoram Moves to Privatise Seven Small Hydel Projects

The Mizoram government is proceeding to privatize seven small hydel power projects due to high maintenance costs, as announced by Chief Minister Lalduhoma during the inauguration of a 10 MW solar power plant in Thenzawl. This decision aims to alleviate financial burdens and benefit the state in the long term. However, it has faced criticism from the Congress party, with former MLA T T Zothansanga arguing that privatization may harm Mizoram’s interests as many of these projects generate revenue. Currently, Mizoram operates 14 hydroelectric projects, generating over 100 MW, with plans for new projects including a 24 MW plant on the Tuirini river and a 132 MW plant on the Tuivai river, which are expected to enhance the state’s energy self-sufficiency and output. The government is also planning to establish six solar parks with a total capacity of 66 MW. Currently, Mizoram depends on electricity imports, primarily from Tripura, costing approximately Rs 400 crore annually, as the local power demand rises by 7.6% each year, peaking at 160 MW. To maintain affordable electricity for consumers, particularly low-income households and small businesses, the ZPM government announced a five-year freeze on power tariff revisions.