Shillong, Sept 12: Power Minister AT Mondal on Thursday discussed various challenges facing Meghalaya’s power sector, focusing on loss-making Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) involved in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. Mondal highlighted key concerns including financial constraints, distribution losses, and plans for implementing smart meters, while also expressing optimism about the sector’s future.

When questioned about the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report, which identified significant losses within the power sector, the minister acknowledged the difficulties but remained hopeful about improvements. “We are working on it. It is not an easy thing. Even in other states, there are similar situations. Distribution losses due to inefficiencies in transmission and distribution, as well as outstanding dues from consumers, are major concerns. We are trying to minimize losses and increase efficiency, which will indirectly benefit consumers,” Mondal stated.

Responding to the Chief Minister’s recent remarks that the power sector is one of the highest loss-making PSUs, Mondal admitted, “Yes, it is true, and he is right. However, the difference is that in other PSUs, if funding is not supplemented, it affects staff salaries and equipment. In the power sector, if the finance department doesn’t step in, there won’t be electricity. The government’s priority, especially the Honorable Chief Minister’s, is to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, and that requires financial support, especially during lean seasons.”

He pointed out the financial strain of power purchases, stating, “If these amounts weren’t required for power, we could have invested in infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and schools. The Chief Minister has been very clear that reforms in the power sector are necessary, and we are working on them. However, it’s not easy due to existing issues such as loans, outstanding dues, and the distribution system, all of which affect not only distribution but also generation and transmission.”

When asked if the power sector could be revived, Mondal was optimistic: “Totally! I am positive, and that’s why we are working on it. There have been significant improvements compared to the past year. I must thank our Honorable Chief Minister for his guidance and support. Without his backing, it wouldn’t have been possible.”

The minister also highlighted the resilience of the sector, pointing to the quick restoration of transmission lines after Cyclone Remal damaged them. “We restored the lines quickly and competently, even employing additional manpower. This year, fortunately, we haven’t had a single minute of load shedding. Any power disruptions have been due to necessary maintenance work,” he explained.

On the issue of staffing, Mondal clarified that there are no immediate plans to downsize, despite financial constraints. “There has been no decision to reduce staff. In fact, we need more engineers and personnel, but financial limitations prevent us from hiring. With the implementation of smart meters, some meter readers may no longer be required, but we are cautiously working on a solution,” he added.

The implementation of smart meters remains a priority, despite previous resistance from consumers. Mondal emphasized the need for cooperation, stating, “Smart meters are not something MeECL is forcing on consumers. They are mandated by the Ministry of Power. Without them, it will be difficult to monitor energy consumption and prevent leakages. We are moving forward with this, but it will take time.”

Addressing concerns regarding Chinese-made meters, the minister assured, “It’s not about whether the meters are Chinese-made. They will comply with the guidelines set by the regulatory authorities.”

Mondal expressed confidence in the sector’s future, noting, “We are working slowly but steadily. There are challenges, but with continued effort, we are optimistic about making progress.”

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