'No MoU signed between TSSPDCL, Adani Group': RTI reply quells Telangana power privatization concerns

Hyderabad: A Right to Information (RTI) reply has revealed that no Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exists between the Telangana Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL) and the Adani Group, quelling concerns over the privatization of power distribution in the region.

Details of the RTI Response

Kareem Ansari, a resident of Barkatpura, Hyderabad, submitted an RTI application on July 3, 2024, seeking information on any agreements or MoUs between the state government and the Adani Group related to power distribution. The response from the State Assistant Public Information Officer, Divisional Engineer of the South Circle of TSSPDCL, clarified the situation.

In the official reply, dated August 7, 2024, the TSSPDCL stated:

"TGSPDCL has not signed any Agreement / MOU with the Adani Group."

Activist's Concerns Addressed

Following the response, Kareem Ansari commented on the significance of the information provided.

"I had filed an RTI to inquire about the status of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Telangana and the Adani Group. The concerned department responded that no such MoU exists. This clarification should alleviate concerns among the people of old Hyderabad regarding power privatization," said Kareem Ansari, RTI Activist (youRTI.in)

Growing Concerns Over Privatization

In recent months, there have been growing concerns among residents of Hyderabad about the possibility of the privatization of power distribution, especially in older parts of the city. Many feared that an agreement between the Telangana government and private corporations, such as the Adani Group, could lead to higher tariffs and reduced public control over essential services.

With this clarification, it appears that no such steps are being taken towards privatization at present.

Official Communication

The RTI response was communicated to Kareem Ansari by registered post, along with copies submitted to the relevant state and corporate officers of the TSSPDCL.

The official communication confirmed that no agreements or MOUs had been signed, thus providing transparency on the issue.