The decision by the Tamil Nadu government to halt the smart meters project has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, with spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy labeling it a serious error . Speaking on Sunday, Thirupathy emphasized that scrapping this initiative would undermine one of the most significant reforms in India’s power sector.
Thirupathy warned that abandoning the project could exacerbate the financial troubles of the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO), which is already struggling with losses. He argued that the smart meters,part of Central government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), are essential for improving the state’s power infrastructure. The technology promises accurate metering and billing,which would help reduce technical and commercial losses while boosting revenue for the distribution company.
Contrary to government claims about the project's financial burden,Thirupathy insisted that smart meters would be financed through a combination of loans and grants from Central government agencies and private investments. He described the initiative as vital for the future, capable of eliminating administrative losses and ensuring reliable power supply.
Thirupathy pointed out that previous DMK government had delayed the project for two years due to political reasons,alleging that companies bidding for the project were asked for bribes . He criticized the DMK for citing high costs as a reason to shelve the project entirely. “If current TVK government follows the same path,it will be a huge blunder,” he stated .
The BJP spokesperson highlighted the potential loss of approximately ₹5,000 crore in central government financial concessions and grants aimed at reducing losses under various schemes if the project is abandoned. He urged Energy Minister R. Nirmalkumar to engage with officials and understand the implications of halting initiative.
Thirupathy cautioned that acting without due diligence could lead to significant setbacks for Tamil Nadu’s development. He called on both the Chief Minister and Energy Minister to thoroughly assess the situation and recognize the importance of smart meter project,which he described as the power ministry’s most substantial initiative . He urged Tamil Nadu government to take immediate action to ensure the project’s swift implementation.
