AGARTALA, Feb 4 (TIWN): After the power ministers of NE states have urged to set up an alternative transmission line between Tripura and West Bengal via Bangladesh to strengthen inter-regional transmission network, power minister Manik Dey said that it will establish connectivity with the national grid and it will also provide improvised connectivity. “I urged the central government through the meeting to think over an alternative power transmission line from Agartala to Kolkata via Bangladesh for the expansion of connectivity with the national grid”, said Manik Dey. He said that of the line is drawn up than it would not only facilitate the state but also it will benefit the other northeastern states towards getting stable and reliable grid connection.It is to be mentioned here that the members of the northeast regional power committee (NERPC) who recently hoisted a meeting in Guwahati has urged to the central ministry for an alternative transmission network for the region.Commenting on the proposed alternative transmission line between Tripura and West Bengal via Bangladesh will boost the connectivity with the national grid and will also lessen the connection length of 500km.

However, the region is now connected with Bongaigoan grid passing through the high terrain and forest land. The alternative line, up to West Bengal via Bangladesh, through plain land will help the region have stable and reliable grid connection

The NERPC contemplated that erection of a transmission line through Bangladesh will further boost friendly relations with Bangladesh and offer them some benefit in transmission of power from the high-voltage double circuit line of India in its territory.

Rather the Tripura government has also demanded an immediate alternative to the US dollar payment for gas purchase by the power generating companies and not to allow any further increase in the gas prices till further modifications by the Centre, said Dey.

The northeastern states of Tripura on yet another fresh drive towards using the neighbouring Bangladesh soil had urged the centre to think over power transmission line to connect Agartala with West Bengal. The issue was raised in the North East Region Power Corporation (NERPC) meeting held at Guwahati being attended by state power minister Manik Dey and the representatives from other north-eastern states.

NERPC is working relentlessly for making northeastern region power system operation reliable, efficient and economic since its formation.