FCC

Tripura Demands Rs 1.35 Bn Power Dues from Bangladesh

2024-12-05

Tripura has demanded the immediate settlement of Rs 135 crore in electricity dues from Bangladesh amidst growing tensions between the two nations. The outstanding payment, part of a power trade agreement through NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN), has significantly impacted the financial stability of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL).

Tripura's Power Minister, Ratan Lal Nath, highlighted that while Bangladesh has made payments in installments, they have not been sufficient to cover the growing arrears, affecting TSECL's finances. The state charges Rs 6.65 per unit of electricity, a rate considered reasonable compared to domestic tariffs.

In May 2024, TSECL had restricted power supply to the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) due to outstanding payments exceeding Rs 100 crore. The payment delays have forced Tripura to rely on costlier power purchases to meet local demand. With Tripura’s plants running at reduced capacity due to limited gas supply, the state has become a net importer of electricity.

Additionally, Tripura's Transport Minister, Sushanta Chowdhury, accused Bangladesh of escalating tensions, reporting that an Indian bus was attacked on its way to Kolkata, with locals raising anti-India slogans.