THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Forty hydropower projects with a capacity of 500 megawatts have remained stalled in the state for years due to strikes and contractors' laziness. The KSEB meeting held yesterday decided to complete six of these on time. These include the 60 MW Pallivasal Extension Scheme, the 40 MW Thottiyar Project, the 6 MW Chathankottunada, the 24 MW Bhoothathankettu and the 24 MW Peringalkuthu. This is the second time this government has decided to complete the work on time.

Construction of the Pallivasal project began on March 1, 2007. As per the agreement, the project was to be commissioned within four years. In 13 years, only 75% have been completed. Generators and accessories imported in 2010 are damaged by rust.

Construction of the Thottiyar project began in 2009. It was supposed to be completed in 2018. The labour dispute became a villain. So far, only half of the work has been completed.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the works of the Bhoothathankettu and Peringalkuthu projects will be soon completed.