Page 150 - SocialHarmony

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Shining Villages

(At the inauguration of 400 KV substation organized by
Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Ltd., Vadavi,

Ranchhodpura, Kadi, Mehsana. July 26, 2007)

The problem of shortage of electricity is discussed all over
the country. The television would also be informing you
about the news of any place in the world. One of the major
problems faced by the common man is the lack of electricity.
Some places experience blackout most of the times. The irregular
supply of electricity has caused industrial units to shift from
the once highly industrialized state of Maharashtra to other
states. People living in Delhi have to keep generators at home
as commonly as others keep TV sets. This situation is seen all
over the country.

One of our Prime Ministers had emphasized the negative
impact that lack of electricity would have on our country during
his speech on Independence Day at the Red Fort. He mentioned
that the development of India would come to a standstill if the
problem of electricity would not be solved. Even after this
concern of the Prime Minister, none of the states except Gujarat
has taken this matter seriously. Gujarat is the only state in the
entire country, which has brought about a revolution in energy.

I took the oath as Chief Minister in 2001. I had barely
finished my oath when reporters, executive officers, elected
leaders, farmers, and businessmen started coming to see me.
All of them requested me to solve the problem of electricity, so
that at least they could have their dinner in light. The situation