Fed up with frequent power bill hikes, Khasipora residents demand smart meters Demand infrastructure upgrade in the area
Pulwama: Residents of Khasipora area in Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have voiced strong resentment over what they describe as frequent and unexplained increases in their monthly electricity bills, urging the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department (PDD) to install smart meters only after upgrading the existing power infrastructure.
The locals said that despite their electricity consumption remaining largely unchanged over the years, their monthly bills have continued to rise steadily. According to them, the electricity fee, which was significantly lower a few years ago, has now increased to around Rs 2,100 per month, placing an additional financial burden on households.
“We have been using the same electrical appliances and consuming almost the same amount of power as we did years ago. Yet our electricity bills are increasing every few months without any explanation. It has become difficult for many families to bear these rising charges,” a local resident said.
Another resident said the present billing system lacks transparency and has left consumers confused about how their monthly charges are being calculated.
“We are not against smart meters. In fact, we believe smart metering can ensure fair and transparent billing. However, before installing them, the government must first upgrade the power infrastructure in our area so that consumers receive a reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply,” he said.
The residents said frequent voltage fluctuations, outdated distribution lines and recurring power interruptions continue to affect the locality, making it unfair to impose higher charges without first improving the quality of service.
“We are ready to pay for the electricity we actually consume, but the billing system should be transparent and the infrastructure should be capable of providing quality power. Smart meters should be introduced only after these issues are addressed,” another local said.
The residents have appealed to the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Power Development Department and other senior officials to look into their grievances, review the recurring hike in electricity charges and take immediate steps to upgrade the local power distribution network before implementing smart metering.
They expressed hope that the authorities would intervene at the earliest to ensure fair billing and improve electricity services in the area.
