Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently met with his Himachal Pradesh counterpart, Sukhwinder Sukhu, to discuss the proposed Water Cess on Hydropower plants by the Himachal Pradesh government. During the meeting, Mann expressed his concerns about the proposed water cess and stated that it would be against the interests of the state. However, Sukhu clarified that the water cess would only be levied on hydropower plants within their own state and not in Punjab.
To resolve the issue, both Chief Ministers agreed that their respective Chief Secretaries and Power Secretaries would meet every fortnight to ensure that there is no conflict between the states. The top bureaucrats of both states will work together to amicably solve any issues that arise.
In addition to discussing the water cess issue, Sukhu proposed the construction of a ropeway between Sri Anandpur Sahib and Naina Devi-ji to facilitate the smooth and hassle-free movement of lakhs of devotees visiting these two historic and religious sites. Both Chief Ministers agreed to cooperate in various fields for the benefit of the people.
