Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa government has temporarily halted the installation of smart electricity meters across the state following concerns over billing discrepancies, load-related issues and other consumer complaints, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant announced.
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting, Sawant said the government would first conduct a detailed assessment of electricity load requirements and address issues raised by consumers before moving ahead with the smart meter project.
“After the power issue, the installation of smart meters is currently on hold. I have prepared a note and will forward it to the department. The payment differences, load issues and other disputes will be taken up and resolved,” the Chief Minister said.
He noted that around one lakh smart meters are yet to be installed in Goa. “The load needs to be studied first, and after that the matter will be discussed further,” he added, indicating that the government would review the project only after completing the assessment.
Apart from the smart meter issue, the Cabinet approved several key decisions. It sanctioned the creation of 73 posts for the Nursing Institute in Margao, including 45 regular posts and 28 additional positions, aimed at strengthening the institute’s academic and administrative functioning.
The Cabinet also approved the transfer of five lakh square metres of land at Farmagudi for the development of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus, paving the way for expansion of higher education infrastructure in the state.
In another significant decision, the government withdrew the Goa Highways Law (Revival of Operation, Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2023, which was awaiting clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Sawant said the Centre had suggested certain modifications to the legislation. “We have withdrawn the bill for now. The suggested changes will be incorporated and the revised bill will be sent again for approval,” he said.
The Chief Minister also announced that 22 children of freedom fighters would be offered government jobs on the occasion of Revolution Day. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to employment generation, Sawant said efforts would be made to ensure all eligible beneficiaries receive job opportunities under various government schemes.
