Speed Post News Network
New Delhi : Union Power Ministry has advised the State/UT administrations to allow construction activities in the power projects outside Municipal limits during nationwide lockdown for COVID-19 outbreak as per the guidelines issued Union Home Ministry on April 15, 2020. These activities may be permitted after observing necessary health protocols to curb COVID-19.
In a communication to States/UTs, DMs, Police Authorities, Municipal Bodies on April 20, 2020, the Ministry has said that as per Para 16(i) of the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs dated April 15, 2020, construction of all kinds of industrial projects in rural areas, i.e., outside the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities have been allowed to be carried out with effect from April 20, 2020. This is also applicable for ongoing construction activities in Thermal/Hydro Power Generation Projects outside the limits of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The Ministry has also requested to allow the intrastate and interstate movement of construction materials, equipment, spares & consumables etc., for these under construction power projects as per Para 12(vi) of the MHA Order dated April 15.
It has been emphasised that resumption of project works at sites may be carried out while taking all mandatory precautions and norms of social distancing as well the advisories issued by Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Health and Family welfare from time to time with regard to Covid-19, according to a PIB release.
Power Ministry has instructed all CMDs of Power CPSUs and Independent Power Producers (IIPs) and UMPPs to ensure the necessary preventive measures/ equipment/ amenities for safeguard from COVID-19 to their employees and workforce deployed for construction activities. The communication advises Chief Secretary (All States) for similar action in respect of the State Generating Companies/ Independent Power Producers.