Shimla- Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his dissatisfaction with  CMD Satluj Jalvidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL), Nand Lal Sharma, who met with him to discuss various hydropower projects being undertaken by SJVNL in the state.

Chief Minister stated that SJVNL had initiated the construction of the 210 MW Luhri (Phase-1), 66 MW Dhaula Sidh, and 382 MW Sunni dam without signing an implementation agreement with the state government.

Despite repeated requests, SJVNL had failed to take proactive measures, leading the state government to issue a notice to the company.

Chief Minister emphasized the need for the state to receive higher royalties from SJVNL's hydropower projects.

Currently, the provision allows for royalties of 12 percent for the first 12 years, 18 percent for the subsequent 18 years, and 30 percent for the final 10 years.

However, the Chief Minister proposed that royalties be set at 20, 30, and 40 percent respectively.

Furthermore, he suggested that projects which have completed construction and covered their costs should provide a royalty rate of 30 percent. Additionally, he urged for the transfer of projects to the state government after 40 years of their operational lifespan.

Chief Minister highlighted the significance of the state's rivers and their water resources, considering them invaluable assets.

Although these resources have been harnessed by hydroelectric projects, the people of the state have yet to witness the desired benefits from them.

The discussion also touched upon the issue of water cess. Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Sunder Singh Thakur, was present during the meeting.