MLA Sumesh Achuthan Demands Probe into Alleged Corruption in Attappady Hybrid Power Project

Chittur MLA Sumesh Achuthan has raised allegations of corruption in the implementation of a hybrid wind-solar project intended to supply electricity to tribal hamlets in Attappady, Kerala. He has called for a comprehensive investigation into the project and other schemes executed by the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT).

Achuthan stated that the demand for an inquiry has gained significance because a minister from the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) government had urged the current United Democratic Front (UDF) government to investigate the alleged irregularities. The MLA pointed out that similar hybrid projects at Ponmudi and Velappankandy in Wayanad were implemented at a cost of approximately ₹2.8 lakh per household, whereas the Attappady project cost ₹5.8 lakh per household for 60 households. This difference in cost, he alleged, indicates corruption.

Further, Achuthan alleged that the inverter used in the Attappady project had applied for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification only after the work order was issued. He questioned how a company without BIS certification was awarded the tender. Most of the units installed in Attappady are now non-functional, he added.

The MLA also raised concerns about irregularities in the PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) project. He claimed that a project for which the quoted tender amount was ₹5.32 lakh was awarded at ₹5.93 lakh. Since the scheme is funded through National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) loans carrying 5.6% interest, the additional cost would ultimately be borne by the public, he said.