Even as the installed Infrared Data Acquisition (IRDA) meters by Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (SPDCL) to curb power pilferage in domestic sector is yielding good result, the DISCOM is yet to meet the goal set when it comes to checking pilferage loss.
Readings from only 82 per cent of the meters installed in Vijayawada circle were taken with the help of hand-held devices last month.
However, when it comes to the total region under the discom’s purview, the contractors have either not purchased the hand-held devices or are not using the same for taking reading.
However, the SPDCL officials say that it is a just matter of time before the new system is fully adopted.
Now, the SPDCL is extending financial assistance to contractors for buying the devices and recovering the same later. The discom may eventually supply the devices on its own, they say.
The IRDA meter readings can instantly be uploaded onto digital databases which are analysed for tracing out the defaulters. According to official sources, so far nearly 3.87 lakh IRDA meters have been installed and approximately 3.32 lakh more are pending.
Meanwhile, the SPDCL has completed the installation of Device Language Message Specification (DLMS) protocol meters for high tension and high value services in the circle.
The DLMS protocol has minimal human interface which offers no scope for tampering. Installation of 3.32 lakh IRDA metres is still pending.
