Over 100 gram panchayats in Ballari district have pending electricity bills amounting to around ₹44 crore.
Officials have attributed the arrears to unscientific billing practices by GESCOM authorities. It has been revealed that power is being consumed at water plants and streetlights under the gram panchayats, but due to the absence of meters, bills are being issued on an estimated basis.
Zilla Panchayat Executive Officer Mohammed Haris Sumer stated that discussions will be held with GESCOM officials to ensure accurate billing. He added that the dues will be cleared once the government releases the required funds.