Smart pre-paid meters in Dimapur should not be made mandatory: FFC

A joint fact-finding committee (FFC) comprising representatives from the Dimapur District GB Association (DDGBA), GBs Union Dimapur Sadar (GBUD), and Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has submitted its report and recommendations on the smart prepaid electricity meter to the deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur.
The fact-finding committee-with five members from each group-held a meeting at Duncan Village Council Hall, here on Tuesday to deliberate on the state government’s directive regarding smart prepaid meter installation.
Following the meeting, the committee submitted its report to DC Dimapur highlighting public concerns and anomalies associated with the mandatory implementation of smart prepaid meters in Dimapur’s urban areas.
DC Dimapur acknowledged receipt of the report and assured the delegation that their findings and recommendations would be forwarded to the concerned authorities for further review and action.
Addressing the media, FFC convenor Dr. Kahuka Sema stated that the 15-member committee was constituted in response to opposition from sections of public to the state government’s decision to implement pre-paid meters in Dimapur.
While acknowledging the importance of reducing electricity losses, Dr Kahuka however, said the committee recommended that the smart prepaid meter system should not be made mandatory for domestic consumers.
He said the committee instead, proposed rollout of the system in a phased manner, beginning with government offices, institutions, industries, and commercial establishments. The committee also urged upon the power department to simultaneously improve infrastructure-such as poles, cables, and transformers and to launch extensive public awareness campaigns.
He also pointed out that Nagaland currently has the highest Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses in the country, with electricity theft contributing to an estimated 30-40% of the loss. Dr. Sema said that Centre’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), aimed at modernizing power distribution infrastructure and introduction of smart meters, should be implemented holistically rather than selectively.
He also disclosed that the committee submitted following recommendations:
Phased implementation: installation of smart prepaid meters in government offices, institutions, and commercial sectors to showcase benefits.
Infrastructure upgrade: Ensure concurrent improvements to infrastructure for effective functioning and public acceptance. Public Sensitization: Conduct awareness drives to educate consumers on the functioning and benefits of the smart meter system.
Consumer choice: Allow domestic users to voluntarily opt for smart prepaid meters or continue with existing meters.
Another committee member, Wojamo Yanthan, expressed willingness to work with the government in combating electricity theft. He urged citizens to report such incidents to local councils to facilitate coordinated action with the power department.