Govt plans digital water meters

NT Reporter

Panaji

Even as the proposed installation of digital meters for power consumers faces opposition from sections
of the public, the state government has announced plans to introduce digital meters for water consumers in the state.

Minister for Drinking Water Subhash Phal Dessai said on Saturday that the department is in the process of replacing manual water meters with digital meters across the state.

He said that with the introduction of digital meters for water consumers, the government expects to generate additional revenue of Rs 50 crore to Rs 70 crore annually.

“The proposal is in the initial stage. But even if it is finalised and digital meters are introduced, it will not put any additional burden on the people,” he said.

Phal Dessai said the department is examining how funds will be raised, whether entirely by the
state government or by bringing a private partner on board, whose investment could be recovered over a period of time.

“If digital meters are introduced for water billing, it will help to bring leakages under control. We are looking for the best technologies and also an affordable price for digital meters,” he
said.