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. He stated that the amendments aim to simplify procedures and improve service delivery.
“KERC will simplify procedures through these amendments. Once the draft is published, the public can submit their objections,” he said, adding that the Commission would soon visit the district to gather feedback directly from stakeholders.
The announcement was made during an interaction attended by public representatives, consumers and officials of Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (Mescom), where several issues related to electricity supply, procurement and tariff burden were raised.
Allegations over RCC pole procurement
Thirthahalli MLA Araga Jnanendra alleged irregularities in the procurement of RCC electricity poles by Mescom. He claimed that in 2021, the lowest bidder had quoted Rs 4,750 per pole. However, after negotiations, Mescom allegedly fixed the price at Rs 5,186 for an 8-metre pole.
In comparison, he said that Gulbarga Electricity Supply Company Limited (Gescom) had purchased poles at Rs 4,282 per pole. He further claimed that he was able to procure RCC poles at Rs 3,855 per pole, questioning the higher rates finalised by Mescom.
Jnanendra also alleged that consumers were being burdened with additional costs, including pension liabilities of Mescom staff. He claimed that hefty charges were being collected for new electricity connections and irrigation pumpset connections, adding to the financial strain on consumers.
Substation row and response
The MLA further alleged that a substation in Mallandur was constructed primarily for the benefit of a coffee estate owner. Responding to the allegation, Mescom Managing Director R Jayakumar clarified that the substation would benefit 67 villages and was planned based on technical requirements and public demand.
Concerns were also raised regarding Udupi-Kasargode Transmission Limited (UKTL), though specific details were not elaborated during the discussion.
Poor response to PM Surya Ghar scheme
Referring to the PM Surya Ghar rooftop solar initiative, the KERC Chairman observed that the response to the scheme in the state had been poor. He noted that under the Gruha Jyothi scheme, the state government provides free electricity up to 200 units of consumption. As a result, many consumers have shown limited interest in installing rooftop solar systems under the Surya Ghar scheme.
Participants also flagged issues related to smart meters not functioning properly in areas facing network connectivity problems. Some consumers complained about technical glitches in the software used for implementing rooftop solar projects.
In response, Ravikumar directed Mescom not to delay implementation due to software-related issues and stated that processes could be carried out manually if required to avoid inconvenience to consumers.
Administrative costs and service issues raised
During the interaction, GK Bhat alleged that Mescom’s administrative costs should be reduced to lessen the financial burden on consumers. He also suggested the introduction of automated systems for switching streetlights on and off to prevent wastage of electricity and called for stricter action against illegal power connections.
A resident of Kottara Chowki alleged that tree branches pruned by Mescom were left in stormwater drains, contributing to flooding in certain areas. He also claimed that his email ID had been blocked by Mescom, preventing him from communicating grievances.
While some participants appreciated Mescom for maintaining service quality despite staff shortages, it was pointed out that local candidates were not coming forward to take up jobs in the utility. A majority of staff were reportedly from Bagalkot, Vijayapura and Kalaburagi districts, many of whom had sought transfers.
A representative also demanded greater awareness about the Janaspandana programme and raised concerns over cable wires being laid on electricity poles without proper regulation.
The meeting concluded with the KERC Chairman assuring that public concerns would be examined and incorporated wherever feasible in the draft amendment process. The forthcoming draft of the Conditions of Supply is expected to invite broader public participation before finalisation.