Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 24 October 2024
The Electricity Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has rolled out a new Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricant (POL) monitoring software aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of fuel management across its power houses. Developed by SOVTECH, the software is designed to track the consumption, storage, and distribution of POL products while providing specific fuel consumption analysis on both diesel generator (DG) level and station level.
The implementation of this software is expected to enhance accountability in real-time, significantly reducing the potential for pilferage. A third-party audit has already been conducted to ensure the accuracy of entries and the effective functioning of the system. Senior officers are actively monitoring POL entries from all stations, emphasising the Department’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
During a sensitisation meeting held at the Conference Hall of the Disaster Management Building, Director (Power) addressed Junior Engineers (JEs), Assistant Engineers (AEs), and Executive Engineers (EEs), outlining critical instructions regarding the generation and transmission and distribution (T&D) systems.
The Director emphasized that any deviations from the POL software compliance would be taken very seriously, and necessary actions would be initiated against those found in violation. In cases of pilferage or unauthorised usage of POL, stringent actions will be enforced against responsible officials, reflecting the Department’s dedication to maintaining high standards of accountability in managing POL resources.
Additionally, it was mandated that all energy meters in power houses must be fully operational to ensure accurate energy recording. Calibrated flow meters are also to be installed in fuel lines for precise recording of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) receipts.
In addressing the engineers in the T&D sector, the Director instructed that JEs must guarantee operational efficiency and strict adherence to safety protocols as outlined in the Department’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Engineers are urged to be responsive to consumer complaints regarding power issues, with resolutions required in accordance with the timelines established in the JERC Regulation (Supply Code) 2018. Non-compliance with these regulations without valid justification will result in serious repercussions, with appropriate actions taken against any Junior Engineer responsible for delays in addressing grievances.
The introduction of this software and the emphasis on compliance and efficiency underscore the Electricity Department’s ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery.