THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee on Tuesday demanded that the State government publish a white paper on the smart meter project, particularly over the escalation in its cost from Rs 467 crore to approximately Rs 890 crore, and explain the reasons behind the increase.
GPCC Media and Communication Department Chairman Amarnath Panjikar termed the project a “colossal failure” and questioned the cost escalation, transparency and implementation of the scheme.
He demanded that the project should be scrapped alleging that the initiative has failed to benefit consumers.
Panjikar alleged that consumers were receiving electricity bills after 40 to 60 days or even longer, resulting in accumulated consumption and higher slab charges. He demanded correction of inflated bills and immediate relief to affected consumers.
Congress RTI Department Convenor Uday Chari said 44,248 smart meters had been installed, but consumers were reportedly not receiving timely consumption information on their mobile phones. He also sought an official notification on the reported decision to keep the project on hold, stating that an initiative involving hundreds of crores could not be governed by oral assurances.
Panjikar also questioned the reported Rs 18 crore relief given to the contractor towards the guarantee amount and demanded recovery of outstanding dues from government departments, industries and commercial consumers.
