Draft amendment to CoS to be published soon: KERC

Mangaluru: Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) chairman P Ravikumar said that a draft amendment to the conditions of supply (CoS) for electricity distribution licensees will be published within a month."KERC will simplify procedures through these amendments. Once the draft is published, the public can submit their objections," he said, assuring that the commission will visit the district soon. Thirthahalli MLA Araga Jnanendra alleged corruption in the procurement of RCC electricity poles by Mescom. He said that in 2021, the lowest bidder quoted Rs 4,750 per pole. However, after negotiations, Mescom fixed the price at Rs 5,186 for an 8m pole. In comparison, Gescom purchased poles at Rs 4,282 per pole, while he claimed to procure RCC poles at Rs 3,855 per pole. He further alleged that consumers are being burdened with costs such as pensions for Mescom staff. He also claimed that hefty charges are being collected for new electricity connections and irrigation pumpset connections. He alleged that a substation in Mallandur was constructed for the benefit of a coffee estate owner. However, Mescom managing director R Jayakumar clarified that the substation would benefit 67 villages. Referring to the PM Surya Ghar solar scheme, the KERC chairman said the response in the state was poor to it. Under the Gruha Jyothi scheme, the state govt provides free electricity up to 200 units of consumption. As a result, many consumers did not show interest in installing rooftop solar systems under the Surya Ghar scheme. Issues related to smart meters not functioning in areas with network problems were also raised, with some participants complaining of technical difficulties. A participant highlighted problems in implementing rooftop solar projects due to software glitches. The KERC chairman directed Mescom not to delay implementation due to software issues, and said the process could be carried out manually if required. GK Bhat alleged that Mescom's administrative costs should be reduced. He also called for automated switching on and off of streetlights to prevent wastage of electricity, and urged stricter action against illegal power connections. . A resident of Kottara Chowki alleged that tree branches pruned by Mescom and left in stormwater drains caused flooding in the city. He also alleged that Mescom blocked his email ID. Concerns were also raised regarding Udupi-Kasargode Transmission Limited (UKTL). While Mescom was appreciated for providing good service despite staff shortages, it was pointed out that locals are not coming forward to take up jobs. A majority of staff are from Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Kalaburagi, many of whom reportedly sought transfers. A representative also demanded greater awareness about the Janaspandana programme, and raised concerns about cable wires being laid on electricity poles.