Meghalaya’s Smart Meter Project Stalls as Govt Awaits Power Ministry Approval
First Published: 2nd February, 2025 11:17 IST
Since smart meter installation requires approvals from designated agencies, all necessary clearances must be obtained before proceeding.
Meghalaya’s ambitious Smart Meter project has hit a roadblock as the state awaits approval from the Ministry of Power. Power Minister AT Mondal confirmed that while the project has already been tendered out, the discovered rate the price quoted by the contractor is significantly higher than the government’s estimated cost.
Although this rate aligns with those in other Northeastern states, Meghalaya has raised the issue with the Ministry and is in the process of writing to them again for further discussions.
Mondal assured that the state government would address public concerns before implementing the project. Since smart meter installation requires approvals from designated agencies, all necessary clearances must be obtained before proceeding. He said that consumer interests remain a top priority, and the government is committed to addressing any apprehensions before moving forward with the initiative.
Power Minister AT Mondal further asserted that Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) is on the path to revival, with the government working towards making it financially self-sufficient. Efforts are being made to clear pending dues to various utilities at the earliest, with plans to settle all outstanding payments to NTPC by next year, the Minister said.
Minister Mondal said, the government is regularly paying current dues, and audited reports of MeECL are being published in local newspapers for transparency. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, he emphasised that MeECL officials are working round the clock to pull the corporation out of its financial crisis. While distribution utilities across the country are facing similar issues, Meghalaya remains committed to strengthening MeECL rather than handing over distribution to private parties.
Also Read: Fossil Stolen from Meghalaya Village was Over 40-Million Year Old Teeth of Anscestor of the Whale
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