Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting to review the progress achieved under the Smart Metering Programme and the Prime Minister Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) in the district. The Deputy Commissioner took a detailed review of the targets assigned and achievements recorded under both flagship initiatives aimed at improving power sector efficiency and promoting clean energy adoption.
Regarding the Smart Metering Programme, it was informed that against the monthly target of 8,740 consumer connections, smart meters have been installed on 7,138 connections so far. The DC directed the concerned officers to expedite the pace of installations and ensure that the remaining targets are achieved within the prescribed timeline.
He stressed the need for effective field-level monitoring, public awareness and close coordination among implementing agencies to avoid delays. The DC emphasized that smart metering is a key reform initiative for improving energy efficiency, reducing transmission and distribution losses and ensuring accurate billing.
He instructed the officers to address bottlenecks and work in mission mode to achieve full coverage as per the implementation plan. The meeting also reviewed the progress of the Prime Minister Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. It was informed that against the target of 4,100 rooftop solar installations, 2,031 installations have been completed in the district so far.
The DC directed the concerned departments to intensify awareness campaigns regarding the benefits of rooftop solar systems and the incentives available under the scheme. He stressed the importance of facilitating eligible households through simplified procedures and timely approvals so that more beneficiaries can avail the benefits of the flagship programme.
Rajesh Sharma called upon all stakeholders to make concerted efforts for achieving the prescribed targets under both schemes in a time-bound manner. Among others, IAS Probationer Nidhi, ACR Vishav Partap Singh, CPO Ranjeet Thakur, XEN JPDCL Mohammed Shafi and other concerned officials were also present.