HPSEB Ltd Employees/Engineers demand Old Pension and Smart metering review
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HPSEB Ltd Employees/Engineers demand Old Pension and Smart metering review
The Joint Front of HPSEBL Engineers and Employees convened a meeting at Kumar House today, where they unanimously passed several resolutions addressing key issues concerning the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL). The resolutions shed light on the employees’ apprehensions and their impact on the state’s power sector.
One of the primary demands put forth by the Front was the immediate implementation of the Old Pension Scheme for HPSEBL employees who joined the organization prior to May 15, 2003. Stressing the significance of the state government’s model, the Front urged swift action on this matter.
Another key issues raised by them was the Smart Metering initiative proposed under the Remote Demand Side Management System (RDSS) in HPSEBL. While not against the technology itself, the Front believed that the financial health and liquidity of HPSEBL should be taken into account before rolling out the project. They suggested a phased implementation, starting with priority areas, to avoid further burdening the already strained financial situation.
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Another major concern voiced by them was their strong opposition to the proposed transfer of HPSEBL’s Generation and Transmission assets to the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) and Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Limited (HPPTCL). The Front argued that this move would prove detrimental to both the employees and the electricity consumers in the state, calling for a reconsideration of the decision.
Furthermore, the transfer of four Small Hydroelectric Projects (HEPs) from HPSEBL to HPPCL was met with serious concern by the Front. They expressed fears that this decision would cause significant delays in the projects’ execution, as it would entail complex processes such as land acquisition, forest clearance, and the transfer of financing contracts with KfW. The Front emphasized the advanced stage of these projects and urged authorities to reconsider the transfer to ensure timely completion.
The uncertain fate of the Uhl-III Hydroelectric Project was also addressed during the meeting. The Front expressed concerns that the project’s potential removal from HPSEBL would hamper progress, as the project was in its final stages. They called for stability and support to ensure the completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe.
Lastly, the Front raised serious concerns about the management’s intentions, alleging a drive to disintegrate or franchise the Distribution Companies (Discoms). To rectify the situation, the Front urged the government to promptly appoint a regular Managing Director for HPSEB Ltd., emphasizing the need for effective leadership and stability.
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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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