Industrialists seek relief from power, water clearance woes

A delegation of industrial associations from across the state met Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh on Thursday and submitted a memorandum seeking urgent relief from power-related issues and difficulties in obtaining permissions from the Haryana Water Resources Authority (HWRA).

The delegation was led by KK Khandelwal, state chairman of the Haryana Chamber of Commerce and Industries (HCCI), and Vinod Dhamija, chairman of its Panipat chapter.

Dhamija said power supply has become a major concern. “Industries are being forced to pay line loss charges despite having independent feeders, which is an undue financial burden. Apart from this, untimely power breakdowns have led to huge losses,” he said.

He also raised objections to the steep rise in fixed charges. “The government has increased the fixed charges from Rs 165 per KVA to Rs 290 per KVA. Such a sudden jump has nearly doubled the burden on industries. The hike should be gradual,” Dhamija added.

On solar power policy, he pointed out that net metering should be allowed as per the sanctioned load. “Currently, it is capped at 500 KVA, which is not viable. Industries are installing solar panels at their own cost, which would reduce pressure on the government. The policy needs to be amended,” he said.

Obtaining clearances from HWRA was highlighted as another major hurdle. “Industries already operate with valid Consent to Operate (CTO) from the State Pollution Control Board, which clearly specifies discharge norms and is linked to the HWRA portal via piezometers. Yet, undue objections are raised, causing financial losses and production disruptions. The government should ease norms so industries can function smoothly,” Dhamija asserted.

Rajiv Aggarwal, general secretary, HCCI Panipat chapter, added that the memorandum sought to simplify and streamline the NOC process, eliminate unnecessary documentation, issue clear guidelines, set fixed timelines for processing, and create a single-window grievance redressal mechanism.

The delegation comprised representatives of about 21 associations across sectors such as steel, plywood, textiles, scientific instruments, machinery, and other manufacturing industries. The CM, according to the members, assured them that their concerns would be addressed on priority.