Tamil Nadu to outsource electricity meter reading amid staff shortage

The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation (TNPDCL) plans to begin hiring contract workers to read electricity meters starting in October. This move aims to address a significant shortage of assessors, with approximately 60 percent of sanctioned posts currently vacant. The utility manages roughly 3.5 crore low-tension service connections, including 2.5 crore domestic consumers.

To improve accuracy and prevent billing delays, contract workers will use mobile applications equipped with optical probes or Bluetooth transmitters to capture readings at consumer premises. The proposed contracts will be issued in six-month periods through limited tenders.

Opposition parties, including the Communist Party of India (CPI) and PMK, have criticized the decision. They argue that outsourcing could lead to overbilling, irregularities, and a lack of social justice. Critics have urged the government to instead focus on permanent recruitment to fill the thousands of vacant positions and ensure long-term stability and accountability.