Shillong, Feb 2, 2025: Power Minister AT Mondal has asserted that Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) is on the path to revival, with the government working towards making it financially self-sufficient. Efforts are being made to clear pending dues to various utilities at the earliest, with plans to settle all outstanding payments to NTPC by next year.
Talking to Media persons the Minister stated, “The government is working to see that all pending dues of other utilities are cleared as early as possible. Maybe by next year, we’ll clear all the dues of NTPC.”
Mondal acknowledged that MeECL has suffered significant financial losses, a challenge not unique to Meghalaya but faced by distribution utilities across the country. “Almost all distribution utilities are facing similar problems, and in many places, they have handed over distribution work to private parties. As far as MeECL is concerned, we are working to ensure it becomes financially self-sufficient,” he said.
The minister emphasized that the state is regularly paying current dues and maintaining transparency by publishing MeECL’s audited reports in local newspapers. “We have a plan to see that MeECL comes out of this financial crisis. This is not an easy job, but we are working hard, and MeECL officials are working around the clock to make the corporation at least financially self-sufficient,” he added.
Highlighting the government’s financial intervention, Mondal said, “Under the guidance of the Chief Minister, the Government of Meghalaya is supporting MeECL in a very big way. Last year, around ₹950 crores was given as a grant to MeECL to tide over losses, ensure staff salaries, and provide pensions to retired employees. A lot of revamping is being done, and we believe it will help MeECL.”
The government is taking a step-by-step approach to strengthen MeECL’s financial position. “One by one, we are working to ensure that MeECL is financially sound,” Mondal asserted. To identify and mitigate losses, state-wise review meetings are being held, with the CMD and directors reaching district and subdivision levels. “We are coming up with projects that directly benefit MeECL, especially in improving the distribution network. We are installing cobalt wires in vulnerable areas, and while these issues are being tackled gradually, we are confident of achieving results,” he said.
Mondal also addressed consumer responsibility, urging electricity users to pay their bills on time. “We have many issues, but not all are MeECL’s fault. I request all esteemed consumers to pay their bills regularly. It’s a transitional period, and we are doing our best to help consumers,” he said.