Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 29: Jammu and Kashmir Government has issued fresh directions to expedite the installation of pre-paid smart electricity meters across all Government establishments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), corporations, and other state-run institutions.
According to a circular issued today by the Budget Division of the Finance Department, all administrative departments have been asked to ensure the early installation of pre-paid smart meters in Government office buildings as well as residential quarters owned by the Government and its affiliated bodies.
The circular reiterates earlier instructions and emphasizes strict compliance to ensure a smooth transition from the conventional billing system to a pre-paid metering mechanism. Departments have been directed to coordinate closely with the Power Development Department and its distribution companies for timely execution.
As part of the transition process, all outstanding electricity dues are to be cleared using available funds after proper reconciliation of pending bills. The Finance Department noted that 50 percent of the required funds under the designated electricity charges head have already been released to facilitate this process.
Following the installation of pre-paid smart meters, all future electricity payments are to be made in advance by Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) from the allocated budget, similar to payments made for other essential services such as telephone and internet.
Departments have also been instructed to closely monitor electricity consumption to ensure it remains within the sanctioned budget. However, provisions have been made for departments delivering essential or critical services to seek additional funds, subject to proper justification and actual requirements.
After an initial implementation period of one to two months, departments may submit estimates for any additional financial requirements to the Finance Department for consideration.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
