A Sensitisation/Awareness Program on Smart Metering under Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) held at the ADC’s Conference Hall, Pughoboto on April 9 provided key clarifications regarding the implementation of smart metering in the subdivision.
Chairing the meeting, SDO (Civil), Yithachu Thur said the move is essential to address Nagaland’s ongoing power challenges, including energy deficit, weak infrastructure and poor revenue collection. The Chair also briefly outlined the importance of Smart Metering as one of the components of RDSS for power sector reform in the country
The SDO Power (III), Kohima Division, responded to objections from GBs of Pughoboto Adhoc Town, who had sought a halt to prepaid smart meter implementation due to the town’s non-notified status. He emphasized that RDSS consists of two components—smart metering and infrastructure upgradation—and urged stakeholders to support the initiative.
It was clarified that Pughoboto being an administrative headquarters, it is mandated to install Smart Meter to all consumers including Govt Offices and Quarters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), despite concerns raised by local representatives.
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Executive Engineer, Er. Sheludi Longkumer presented details of the scheme, addressing misconceptions and assuring stakeholders of the system’s reliability, transparency and accuracy.
It was highlighted that installation of smart meters would be free of cost until 2028. Consumers would retain the option to choose between prepaid and postpaid billing, with prepaid systems offering lower tariffs and a ₹300 credit facility even after balance exhaustion, preventing immediate disconnection.
The meeting also resolved to post a Billing Assistant at the Pughoboto office to assist consumers facing difficulties with online payments.
Concluding the meeting, the chair urged the public to cooperate in adopting smart metering to enable faster infrastructure improvements such as transformers and street lighting.
