Telangana’s power distribution companies, once hailed as frontrunners in the nation’s power sector, have been dealt a severe blow in the recent rankings released by the Union Power Ministry. The 12th annual report exposes a stark reality, revealing a significant decline in their standings under the previous administration led by the BRS government.
Among the 53 public and private sector electricity companies evaluated across the country, the Dakshina Telangana Power Distribution Corporation (TSSPDCL), headquartered in Hyderabad, has plummeted to the 44th rank, while the North Telangana Power Distribution Company (TSNPDCL) operating from Warangal now holds the 46th position.
The downturn in rankings underscores the financial instability plaguing Telangana’s DISCOMs, shedding light on the mismanagement during the previous regime. The staggering debt burden, surpassing 82 thousand crores over the past decade, has not only jeopardized their national ranking but also raised concerns about their viability.
Under the BRS government’s tenure, long-term loans totaling Rs. 78,553 crores were procured from banks, coupled with dues amounting to Rs. 85,030 crores owed to various organizations. These financial woes, amounting to a total debt of Rs. 1,63,583 crores, have shackled the DISCOMs, necessitating loans even to cover basic operational expenses such as salaries.
The Ministry of Power’s annual report highlights the alarming losses incurred by the DISCOMs, with one unit of electricity supplied resulting in losses of Rs. 1.19 paise for the Northern DISCOM and Rs. 1.08 paise for the Southern DISCOM. Moreover, the failure to maintain financial discipline has been underscored by significant supply losses and deficits in bill collections.
In response to this dire situation, the new government has initiated corrective measures aimed at restoring financial stability and enhancing electricity supply. However, the road to recovery remains uncertain, and the extent of improvement in rankings will be closely monitored in the coming year under the new administration’s leadership.
