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Dhaka Friday,  Mar 29, 2024

REB hopes to cover 90pc off-grid areas by 2021

EB Reporter

Rural Electrification Board (REB) launched a new service on Thursday at the Munshiganj Palli Buddut Samity to provide “on the spot” power connection whenever an intending household consumer applies for electricity.
REB Chairman Brig Gen Moin Uddin told the Daily Observer, “To achieve the goal ‘power for all by 2020’ we are providing electricity connection randomly. Now we started the programme on spot power connection aiming to cover as much area as we can cover.”
“Initially started in Munshiganj, we will introduce the programme in all our 72 Samity areas. The consumer who does not apply for electricity connection we are inviting them to apply with logistic support. Under the programme 35 linemen would be ready to install meters. Once wiring in the house is complete, the consumer will apply for connection which he will get within 24 hours.” The REB Chairman said.
Senior General Manager of Munshiganj Palli Biddut Samiti Mahabub Alam told this correspondent at his office on Thursday, “Our Samity has provided 100 per cent power connection and it is now making profit.  We have no overload or load shedding. Presently we can supply uninterrupted power for 22 to 23 hours daily.”
Replying to a question, he said, under the Samity there are also few industries which eat up the bulk of the power here. As per the Chairman’s instruction, “we will provide 4,000 connections every month aiming to reach our goal.”
Planning Commission sources said under the project titled “expansion of rural electrification” it plans to provide power connection to 18 million consumers.
In last five years the REB has installed 34,3487 km distribution line offering electricity to 2,223 villages.  “We have plans to install more one lakh km of distribution line,” one REB official said.
It was learnt that 90 per cent of the off-grid area would be covered under rural electrification facility by 2021 and more than 0.8 million applicants would be given connections soon.
REB has great success in its account. It should continue endeavouring to overcome limitations and excel in system upgradation, maintenance and expansion. Such a huge service provider must operate professionally with wisdom. It should keep pace with the development of future technology in power system. Honest, professional and dynamic leadership with very dedicated followers at all stages may keep REB on track, otherwise, it may lose breath to carry the mandate as assigned by ‘Vision 2021’said Chairman.

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