Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Oct 6: Amid a continuing dispute over the illegal use of electricity poles by ISPs and cable TV operators, the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) has asked the Goa electricity department to submit a detailed report on non-tariff revenue from monetized power infrastructure assets.

In its tariff order dated September 30, the Commission directed the department to provide data on income generated from asset monetization to date. Stakeholders, during a public meeting, had highlighted that the issue of monetizing electricity department assets—particularly hanging cables on poles—remains unresolved. They pointed out that no recovery has been made from cable operators or ISPs since 2015, and that the department lacks comprehensive data on users of its assets. Concerns were also raised about advertisement boards on poles, questioning whether political party figures are exempt from payments.

The electricity department told JERC that it charges cable operators for pole usage and collects fees for temporary hoardings. However, despite issuing multiple notices demanding dues exceeding Rs 38 crore from ISPs and cable operators, the department has failed to recover any funds.

The High Court of Bombay at Goa had directed the department to remove unauthorized cables while asking operators to obtain proper permissions and pay dues under the Telecommunication (Right of Way) Rules, 2024.

JERC emphasized the importance of non-tariff income, which includes revenue from sources beyond regular tariffs, meter rents, or penalties, and directed the electricity department to submit detailed accounts of revenue gained through asset monetization.

The move highlights the ongoing tussle between the electricity department and private operators, and the need for formalized revenue collection mechanisms for the use of public infrastructure.