Halt in on-spot billing in capital post smart meter deployment raises concerns

Ranchi, Oct 19: The ongoing installation of smart meters in Ranchi city has reached a significant milestone, with approximately 1.5 lakh smart meters out of the targeted 3.5 lakh already installed. However, an issue of concern has arisen as only around 15,000 of these meters are pre-paid, leading to the suspension of on-spot billing in most areas of the city.

The halt in on-spot reading and billing has persisted for two to three months, posing challenges for the general public. The lack of clear guidance on how to navigate this issue has left many residents in limbo.

One surprising development is that more than 50 percent of Urja Mitras (meter readers) from the billing agency Competent Energy, responsible for Ranchi Area Board, have left their positions. The primary reason behind this exodus is the inability to conduct billing due to the absence of smart meter punching, rendering their fieldwork ineffective. Additionally, reports suggest that the agency is not providing regular compensation to the Urja Mitras, and the installation of smart meters has disrupted their source of income.

Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL) management appears to be divided on the issue. Ranchi’s General Manager and General Manager of Revenue present different perspectives, further complicating the matter. This situation continues to inconvenience the public, and there appears to be no immediate resolution in sight.

JBVNL GM Revenue Subhankar Jha emphasized that clear directives have been issued to Ranchi Area Board and Circle Officers to address the issue promptly. He called on the affected company to rectify its operations and reinstate the meter readers who left their jobs. If the company fails to do so, written complaints are encouraged, and action will be taken against the agency. Furthermore, if the company cannot deploy meter readers in the field, they are advised to arrange for on-spot billing through their own personnel.

Ranchi GM PK Srivastava offered a contrasting viewpoint, stating that most meters have indeed been punched, and any excuses provided by the company in this regard are unfounded. He reiterated that strict instructions have been issued to the agency to rectify the system promptly and ensure on-spot billing is carried out by Urja Mitra. If necessary, the JBVNL will explore the option of billing through its own staff.