THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While Rs 12,000 crore was needed to meet the financial obligations of March, borrowing with conditions sanctioned by the Center also came to a standstill. The problem is the objection of the pro-rule organization in KSEB!

Apart from salary and pension, 12000 crores are required for bill transfer and other benefits of public works contractors and local bodies as it is the end of the financial year. 5,033 crore loan has been approved by the central government. There is a clause that 4,060 crore of this has to be used for the implementation of smart meters. However, when the left organizations objected to the smart meter, the noose fell.

The KSEB Workers' Association and Officers' Association alleged that the implementation of smart meters using the central agency RECPDCL is promoting privatisation. The government issued an order on January 10th to issue smart meters to 37 lakh consumers, ignoring objections as the loan was a public requirement of the state. The Center was also informed about it. However, as the organizations strongly resisted the signing of the agreement, it became impossible to proceed. 4060 crore loan approval was blocked by the Centre.

Electricity minister K Krishnankutty held talks with CITU leaders on January 25 and February 3 to resolve the issue but to no avail. A committee has been appointed under the chairmanship of Digital University VC to study how to overcome the crisis without losing central assistance, without affecting the borrowing limit, and submit a report before the 28th of this month.

4060 crore for smart?

Although Rs 4060 crore is being borrowed in the name of smart meters, it is planned to use the amount for other liabilities as well.

Liabilities of March

2600 crores - Three months welfare pension
4800 crores-Salary and Pension
5600 crores-Local Authority Bills