RK Impact: Authorities seek report into smart meter installation on trees in Koil village

Pulwama, April 04: Taking cognisance of Rising Kashmir news story, authorities of Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) have sought a report into installation of smart meters on trees in Koil village of Pulwama district.
The authorities of KPDCL revealed that they have engaged in discussion with REC PDCL ( Power Development and Consultancy Limited ) TKC ( turnkey contractor) to address the matter and a report has also been sought on the issue.
The authorities have also submitted a detailed project report ( DPR) for replacement of wooden poles and barbed wires to higher offices for approval.
“Matter has been taken up with REC PDCL TKC and a report sought. DPR for replacement of wooden poles and barbed wire has already been sent to higher authorities for approval and funding” KPDCL Officials said on X, reacting to the Rising Kashmir story.
On 4th March, 2024, Rising Kashmir had carried a story about installation of smart meters on trees in Koil village of Pulwama.
The residents had expressed apprehensions that smart meters installed on trees and wooden logs pose a risk to their life and property.
The residents had expressed their support to the department in the installation of smart meters but had asked them for erecting electric poles and upgrading basic power infrastructure in the area.
Executive Engineer, PDD, Pulwama, Mohammed Maqbool, said that he discussed the matter with his higher ups and hoped that they will find a way to address the issue.
He informed that the feeder has been taken under RDSS( Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme) for this year.
“The feeder has to be improved by replacing electric poles and wires under RDSS,” he said.
He said that before installation of smart meters it would have been wiser to upgrade basic infrastructure first.
The local residents of Koil village have appreciated KPDCL for taking note of their grievance and hoped that the grievance will be redressed soon.
They also expressed gratitude to Rising Kashmir for highlighting their issue.