Kochi: The state government has directed officials at the Ernakulam collectorate to submit a comprehensive report detailing the expenses required for installing separate electricity meters for each office within the building. This move follows a previous estimate by the Public Works Department (PWD) electrical wing, which suggested that Rs 35.70 lakh would be necessary to install individual meters for government offices currently sharing meters.
The push for a detailed report comes after the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) disconnected power to 30 offices in the Ernakulam collectorate in February due to arrears amounting to Rs 52.70 lakh. The government now seeks a thorough assessment that includes power usage and related expenses, aiming to bring clarity to the electricity consumption of each office. An official highlighted that the collectorate houses approximately 70 offices, with around 30 sharing common meters. This setup makes it challenging to ascertain the actual electricity consumption of each office, particularly since old arrears include charges from offices that have since relocated. “The government provides only a minimal amount for electricity charges, making it difficult to cover costs without individual meters,” the official explained. The implementation of separate meters is expected to not only provide transparency in power consumption but also address the financial challenges faced by the collectorate. The arrears issue has underscored the necessity for a more efficient and accountable system of electricity usage within the building.
Moreover, the collectorate frequently receives inquiries about available space for new government offices, adding to the urgency of the situation. However, officials have stated that the building is already saturated with offices, leaving no space for new establishments. The proposed meter overhaul is seen as a critical step towards resolving the ongoing issues related to power consumption and financial management at the collectorate. By implementing individual meters, the administration aims to ensure accurate billing and better resource allocation, ultimately improving the operational efficiency of the collectorate. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance the infrastructure and administrative capabilities of government offices across the state. The comprehensive report, once submitted, will provide the necessary groundwork for the implementation of separate meters, marking a significant shift towards improved governance and accountability in power management at the Ernakulam collectorate.
