In a significant move towards modernizing the state’s power infrastructure, Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister Anil Vij announced that all old electricity meters across the state will be replaced with smart meters in a phased manner. Speaking to the media in Hisar, Vij highlighted that the new system will offer consumers the flexibility to choose between prepaid and postpaid billing options, similar to mobile phone connections.
The Minister emphasized that the department is adopting a robust and accountable approach to power management. To address safety and reliability concerns, he noted that the process of laying underground cables has already commenced in Gurugram and Faridabad. This initiative will be expanded to other areas to prevent common issues such as snapping of overhead wires and falling poles, thereby ensuring a safer supply network.
Vij also outlined strict measures to monitor power outages. All Superintending Engineers (SEs) have been instructed to submit daily reports by 11:00 AM, detailing the reasons, duration, and circumstances of any power cuts in their respective circles. “We have put in place a system where accountability is fixed, and as a result, power cuts during the summer have been largely kept under control,” he stated.
Touching upon the transport sector, Vij shared updates on the modernization of Haryana Roadways. He announced that a bus tracking system and a dedicated mobile app are being developed to allow passengers to check real-time bus locations, routes, and timings. Additionally, the government is considering expanding the fleet with more electric buses to combat pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).