Tell-tale project approval

10,500km of power distribution lines have already been laid out under a previous expansion project without a matching growth in the power generation capacity. The explanation behind the new addition seems to be, to quote the finance minister: "We approved the project so that people would get electricity as soon as power is available." Can anyone give credence to this idea when there has been only a unidirectional expansion in the supply network without this being preceded by any addition whatsoever to the existing power generation capacity?

Actually, the unjustified prioritisation of distribution network over power generation capacity stems from money spinning motivation with a short run gestation period. Raising power generation capacity is time consuming whilst installing supply poles is a short term project capable of yielding money in quick time. Our report on the subject referring to planning ministry sources states that "there is a pro-government syndicate of businessmen who manufacture electricity poles in the country and the project will benefit them only."

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The approach is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it milks money for a coterie of people (mind you, there is a cost overrun from Tk 553crore to Tk 953crore on the original project!); and on the other, voters in the areas being covered are sought to be wooed with the prospect of power lines above their heads, however empty of electricity these might be.