Wagad Tral residents protest against smart meter installation
‘Will allow meter installation only after upgradation of infrastructure’
Pulwama: The residents of the Waghd area of Tral on Friday staged a protest against the installation of electricity smart meters, alleging that the Power Development Department (PDD) has started the process without completing the required infrastructure and formal procedure on the ground.
The protesters said that the department is attempting to install meters without first carrying out proper cabling, erection of electricity poles, and upgrading of the distribution network, which they fear will lead to frequent outages and unjustified billing.
Carrying placards and raising slogans, the locals demanded immediate intervention by senior officials of the PDD and urged them to halt the installation process until all necessary groundwork is completed.
“We are not against meters, but the department should first ensure proper cabling and install new poles where required. Without that, meters will only create problems for consumers,” said a local resident during the protest.
Another protester said that the existing electricity infrastructure in the area is out dated and unable to handle additional load. “The wires are old and unsafe. Before installing meters, the department must upgrade the entire system. Otherwise, people will suffer,” he said.
Locals also expressed concern that installing meters without a proper system in place could result in inflated bills. “If there are voltage fluctuations and frequent breakdowns, how will consumers be responsible for higher bills? The department must follow a transparent and complete procedure,” said a shopkeeper from the area.
The protesters appealed to the authorities to engage with the community and address their concerns. “We want officials to visit the area, assess the situation, and only then proceed with meter installation as per norms,” they added.
Meanwhile, the residents warned that if their demands are not met, they will not allow installation without upgrading infrastructure.
They reiterated that they support reforms in the power sector but not at the cost of public inconvenience and without proper infrastructure development.
