TNPDCL Raises Wages For Retired Staff and Contract Labourers To Fill Vacancies

The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation (TNPDCL) has approved a wage hike for retired utility personnel and contract labourers to address critical staffing shortages in substations. The decision, announced in the TNPDCL board's latest proceedings, aims to fill vacant positions that have previously caused prolonged power cuts during equipment failures in Chennai and across the state.

Under the newly approved pay structure, retired engineers, foremen, and line inspectors engaged by the utility will see their wages increased up to ₹30,000 per month. Previously, retired personnel deployed at 110kV substations were paid just ₹750 per day, while those working at 33/11kV substations received ₹500 per day.

This low payment structure had led to a widespread lack of interest in the jobs, leaving many crucial posts vacant. This vacancy rate became a significant problem during equipment failures, as there were not enough personnel available to perform necessary repairs, leading to extended power outages.

The TNPDCL board approved the wage hike under specific guidelines. The utility stipulated that retired personnel should make up no more than 50 per cent of the total staff engaged in the substations. Additionally, these retired workers must perform their duties under the direct supervision of regular staff members.

Through a separate order, the discom also increased the basic wages for contract labourers. Their daily wage has been raised from ₹766 to ₹965. This adjustment will bring the total cost to ₹1,324 per worker per day payable to the contractor, which covers the basic wage, provident fund, protective gear, and GST.

Industry experts have pointed out that the current staffing situation could have been avoided. They noted that the utility should have created a sustainable talent pool of younger professionals through proper training and engagement, rather than relying on retired staff to fill these critical operational roles.