HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, July 23: The Department of Power, Arunachal Pradesh, has announced a comprehensive plan to replace existing prepaid meters with smart meters as part of a nationwide smart metering initiative, in accordance with the Central Government’s mandate to modernise power distribution and metering systems.
The department is also targeting 100% metering coverage with the integration of three components—feeder meters, distribution transformer (DT) meters, and consumer meters.
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According to an official statement issued by the department, the transition to smart metering will significantly enhance consumer convenience, billing accuracy, and operational efficiency across the power distribution network.
The initiative is being undertaken under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISP) on a TOTEX (CAPEX + OPEX) basis.
Speaking to the media, Executive Engineer (Electrical) of the Power Department’s Information Technology Division, Joram Lali, informed that public notices have been issued as part of an awareness campaign to inform consumers of the impending transition.
“The Department is undergoing digital transformation, and most of its activities are being digitalised to ensure convenience and efficiency for both officers and consumers,” he said.
Lali highlighted that as per the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and the Central Electricity Authority’s amended regulations (2022), all electricity consumers in areas with communication networks are required to be provided with smart meters operating in pre-payment mode.
He stated, “This will allow consumers to recharge their meters anytime, from anywhere, avoiding the need to physically visit offices or wait in queues.”
The Executive Engineer emphasised that the shift to smart meters is not only a statutory requirement under the Electricity Act but also offers multiple benefits to both consumers and the distribution utility.
“Smart meters provide better control over electricity consumption, eliminate delays or inaccuracies in billing, and offer flexibility in recharging with any amount based on the consumer’s paying capacity. It’s a pro-poor measure that ensures efficient service delivery,” he added.
The department has already initiated survey and investigation activities across the state to facilitate the transition.
According to current data, there are approximately 3.13 lakh prepaid electricity consumers in Arunachal Pradesh.
The figure is expected to rise further once the survey is completed and updated figures are obtained.
As part of the awareness drive, consumers have been urged to get smart prepaid meters installed at the earliest.
For queries or clarifications, consumers may contact the Information Technology Division, Department of Power, Itanagar, or reach out through email at support@arpdop.gov.in or via the customer care number 1912.
Expressing his commitment to the digital transformation of the power sector, Lali remarked, “I am doing my best to carry forward my responsibility as an Executive Engineer in this IT transformation process.
However, it is important that the Government strengthens IT infrastructure within the Power Department, as several states already have dedicated IT wings with full-fledged officers and systems.”
He concluded by urging consumers to actively participate in the smart metering reform initiative.
“The smart meter installation programme will be launched soon, and I appeal to all consumers to avail its benefits. We are working diligently, and very soon, every consumer in the state will be equipped with smart metering facilities,” he said.
