Devise mechanism to check power losses, theft, CM tells board officials

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today directed the officers of HP State Electricity Board Ltd and the Energy Department to devise a mechanism to accurately assess power losses and curb electricity theft in the state. He ordered the officers concerned to carry out feeder-wise mapping of all commercial, industrial and domestic consumers so that the entire information was available on a single click.

Sukhu said that the officers needed to take every possible step to check power losses and implement a comprehensive strategy such as feeder metering.

He said that the state government had set a target to complete the Shong-Tong hydroelectric power project in Kinnaur district by November 2026. He presided over a meeting of the officers of HP State Electricity Board Ltd and the Energy Department here.

Sukhu, while reviewing the progress of the 450 MW Shong-Tong power project, instructed the officers concerned to ensure timely completion of the project. He also directed them to plan for power evacuation once the project becomes functional to prevent monetary losses.

He also directed the HPSEBL officials at present serving on deputation in the Directorate of Energy, HP Power Transmission Corporation and the HP Power Corporation to provide their options for service by April 30. He added that the staff of the civil wing could also opt to go to the Public Works Department and other departments.

He said, “The employees will be governed by the existing terms and conditions and there will be no impact on their promotions and other benefits. The government will also amend policies to ensure that all benefits are protected.” He added that the HPSEBL would be strengthened by filling 2,000 posts of T-mates and linemen in coming months to streamline the functioning of the organisation.

Sukhu instructed the authorities concerned to transfer officers and officials serving in industrial areas for a longer period to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.

HPSEBL Chairman Sanjay Gupta, Chief Minister’s Principal Adviser Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary (Power) Rakesh Kanwar, Managing Director, HPSEBL, Sandeep Kumar, Director of Energy Rakesh Prajapati, Managing Director of HP Power Transmission Corporation Ltd. Rajiv Sood and Special Secretary (Power) Arindam Chaudhary attended the meeting.

Himachal Tribune