Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Apr 16: Outstanding electricity dues of over Rs 251 crore from grama panchayats are pending to MESCOM, officials said on Wednesday.

Addressing reporters, MESCOM chairman Harish Kumar stated that as of February 28, 2026, a total of Rs 251.39 crore remains unpaid by grama panchayats. This includes Rs 218.84 crore towards drinking water supply and Rs 32.55 crore for street lighting.

In addition, dues from municipalities and city corporations stand at Rs 261.54 crore, while government irrigation and other departments together owe Rs 517.53 crore, he said.

Highlighting staffing concerns, Kumar noted that out of 9,248 sanctioned lineman posts across districts under MESCOM—covering Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga—only 5,283 are currently filled. Recruitment of 465 linemen is under way, but transfers of around 400 personnel are expected to continue affecting manpower availability.

He further pointed out that fewer candidates from coastal districts like Mangaluru and Udupi are joining as linemen, with more recruits coming from other districts who often seek transfers later, leading to recurring shortages.

To tackle emergencies during the monsoon season, MESCOM has planned to deploy additional temporary staff. Each assistant executive engineer will oversee a team of five members to assist linemen in case of natural calamities and ensure quick restoration of services, he added.