Shimla, July 5
In Himachal Pradesh, the proposal to replace 26 lakh conventional power meters with smart meters has sparked significant concern. The Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) employees’ union has urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to reconsider this decision, highlighting both financial and practical issues associated with the switch.
The union argues that the financial burden of installing smart meters is substantial, with costs estimated at around ₹10,000 per meter for households consuming less than 125 free units of power. This expenditure appears unnecessary, especially when electronic meters, costing approximately ₹500, could serve the same purpose. HL Verma, the secretary of the HPSEBL Employees’ Union, emphasized that the decision does not align with the interests of HPSEBL or the state.
Verma further noted that the financial bid for the smart meter project amounted to ₹3,100 crore, significantly higher than the proposed Detailed Project Report (DPR) of ₹1,788 crore. While budgetary support from the Centre would cover ₹393 crore, the remaining ₹2,700 crore would need to be funded by either the state government or HPSEBL consumers, potentially adding an extra burden of ₹125 per month for consumers. This financial strain is concerning, given that HPSEBL is already grappling with significant financial hardships, including arrears and claims from its pensioners and employees.
The union also pointed out that HPSEBL had recently replaced mechanical meters with electronic meters throughout the state. The switch to smart meters would render these newly installed electronic meters obsolete, resulting in unnecessary expenditure to dispose of this “scrap.”
This move is seen as benefiting private contractors rather than serving public interest, as it provides lucrative business opportunities under the guise of public benefit. Such decisions are perceived as being influenced by a powerful lobby of private contractors and bureaucrats, raising concerns about potential corruption and vested interests.
The issues extend beyond smart meters. The role of power companies in hydropower project construction is another area of concern. Allegations of corruption are rampant, with companies like Ms Rutvik being accused of environmental violations, such as dumping debris into the Satluj river. Former MLA Rakesh Singh has exposed how this firm secured major contracts in SJVNL power projects through questionable means. These activities have serious environmental repercussions, contributing to disasters in regions like Mandi and Kangra districts. The unchecked dumping of muck and debris into rivers exacerbates the risk of natural calamities, further endangering local communities and the environment.
Critics argue that instead of focusing on unproductive expenditures like smart meters, the government should prioritize enhancing infrastructure. This includes replacing outdated power lines, providing better voltage regulation, and ensuring a reliable power supply to consumers. Moreover, the state’s policies should aim to protect the environment and the interests of the public, rather than facilitating power brokers and private companies. Investing in robust infrastructure would not only improve service delivery but also prevent future financial and environmental crises.
The debate over the smart meter installation is emblematic of larger governance challenges in Himachal Pradesh. The state government is urged to rise above political considerations and prioritize the long-term welfare of its citizens, employees, and the environment. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and prudent financial management is crucial in addressing the ongoing concerns and building public trust.
As Himachal Pradesh navigates these contentious issues, the state government must make decisions that genuinely benefit the public and safeguard the state’s economic and environmental health. Balancing the need for technological advancement with financial sustainability and public interest remains a critical challenge. The ongoing debate over smart meters serves as a crucial test of governance and public policy in the region, highlighting the importance of responsible decision-making in the face of powerful lobbies and vested interests.
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