PAC requests report on power tariffs from Lal Commission
KATHMANDU: On Thursday, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the House of Representatives requested the Ministry of Energy, Water Resource and Irrigation to provide the report on power tariffs for 'dedicated and trunk lines' prepared by the probe commission led by former Supreme Court Justice Girish Chandra Lal. PAC Chairperson Rishikesh Pokharel indicated that the report is needed for further study. The PAC had earlier discussed the power tariffs issue with business leaders and entrepreneurs, addressing concerns raised by the Lal Commission's findings.
During the discussions, lawmakers Rajendra Lingden, Arjunnar Singh KC, and Rajan Dahal advocated for implementing the Lal Commission's recommendations. Lawmaker Dr. Amresh Kumar Singh emphasized that industries should not misuse power meant for household use, while Hari Dhakal urged businesspeople to adhere to legal practices rather than seeking unofficial deals. Industrialist Pashupati Murarka responded that while industrialists are willing to pay the tariffs, they should be provided with TOD Meters.
Additionally, the International Relations and Tourism Committee of Parliament directed the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation to submit the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) report within a week. Committee Chairperson Raj Kishor Yadav expressed frustration over the delay in receiving the report despite multiple requests. The Committee also requested information about a bill aimed at separating the licensing and regulatory functions of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), with many members supporting the bill to enhance aviation safety.