SRINAGAR: Managing Director of Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Yasin M Choudry, chaired a review meeting to discuss the progress of Smart Metering Projects and other related issues in the distribution wing of KPDCL. The meeting was attended by officials from KPDCL and Anvil Cables and Techno Pvt Limited (TKCs). The slow progress of smart meter installations in various districts of Kashmir was taken seriously by the Managing Director, who issued strict directions to the concerned parties.
During the meeting, the physical installation of smart meters under Phase II allotted to Techno Pvt Ltd was discussed and directions were given to the concerned TKC to mobilize teams by the end of April 2023 for installation of smart meters. The TKCs were directed to increase the number of smart meters raised for inspection at their manufacturing plant and to increase the number of smart meter installations per day to around 500. The TKCs were also directed to increase the workforce at the IT&C Bemina Data Centre for better IT-sub div coordination.
Various Executive Engineers/SDOs were instructed to curb power thefts, especially in areas where smart meters have already been installed. The Superintending Engineer of Circle II was directed to issue dismantled energy meters to the relevant divisions for utilization by concerned SDOs for flat rate consumers. The installation of Smart Metering in industries was also discussed during the meeting, and concerned sub-divisions were directed to complete 100% installation without further delay.
The Managing Director issued necessary instructions to IT&C Bemina and concerned TKC/TKCs to kick-start the Prepaid Option of Smart Meters within two days, with a minimum of 500 connections. The chair was also informed about the auto-disconnect feature of smart meters, and the concerned IT department was directed to implement the feature and initiate the process to disconnect all defaulters who haven’t paid their bills for the past 3 months by the 5th of every month with strict compliance.
TKCs were directed to take up bulk metering, as per earlier directions, and to mobilize more workforce in Districts Pulwama, Ganderbal, and Anantnag. All Executive Engineers, along with SDOs, were directed to take up ROW issues with the district administration, to reduce the resentment faced by the concerned TKCs during smart meter installations. Executive Engineers and concerned SDOs were asked to take strict action and impose heavy penalties for those who tampered with the smart meters or resorted to illegal hooks.
TKCs were directed to replace burned-out RF mode meters with GPRS-type Smart Meters, wherever the former was not available due to technical reasons. The meeting was concluded with the Managing Director emphasizing the importance of timely implementation of the Smart Metering Projects and related initiatives. (KNO)
