J&K Govt Issues Major Order for All Departments
Srinagar/Jammu, Dec 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has issued a circular directing all government establishments, institutions, local bodies, and government residential colonies to install prepaid smart electricity meters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
The circular, issued by the Finance Department (Budget Division), states that timely payment of electricity dues is essential to ensure the financial stability of power utilities and to provide uninterrupted 24×7 power supply to consumers across the Union Territory. The government said the move will also help reduce the gap between the Average Cost of Supply (ACS) and Aggregate Revenue Receipt (ARR).
According to the circular, the installation of prepaid smart meters is already underway across domestic, commercial, industrial, and other consumer categories through JPDCL and KPDCL. The Power Development Department now intends to extend this drive to cover all government institutions and establishments without exception.
All departments have been advised to coordinate with JPDCL and KPDCL for the installation of smart prepaid meters strictly as per government guidelines. The Finance Department has also instructed departments to expedite the process in buildings under their administrative control.
The circular further directs departments to make adequate budgetary provisions under the designated head 008 – Electricity Charges while submitting budget estimates to the Finance Department. Any additional financial requirement related to smart meter installation must be projected separately for consideration.
Officials said the installation of prepaid smart meters is aimed at ensuring transparent billing, controlling power losses, improving energy efficiency, and strengthening the overall power distribution system in Jammu and Kashmir.
The circular has been circulated to all senior government departments, district administrations, public sector undertakings, autonomous bodies, and concerned authorities for immediate compliance.
